The Streaked Weaver, Ploceus manyar, is a captivating species of weaver bird adorned with a distinctive streaked underpart. This bird is less commonly encountered than its relative, the Baya Weaver.
In breeding plumage, the male Streaked Weaver is a sight to behold, with its striking patterns and colors. Outside of the breeding season, the male adopts a more subdued non-breeding plumage, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
These weavers favor the reed beds, where they can be found in small colonies, often in close proximity to water bodies—a testament to their preference for wetland ecosystems.
The Streaked Weaver graces a wide range of countries across South Asia and South-east Asia, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and has also been introduced to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
The Streaked Weaver is a sociable bird, nesting in colonies that offer both safety and community. Their nests, a testament to their intricate craftsmanship, are often constructed in the shelter of reed beds.
The IUCN Red List categorizes the Streaked Weaver as Least Concern, indicating a stable population that does not currently face significant threats to its survival.