The Aldabra fody is a passerine bird in the family Ploceidae. It is endemic to Aldabra, an atoll northwest of Madagascar, part of Seychelles. Regarded as conspecific with the Comoros fody in the past, it is now recognized as a distinct species by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Both sexes are yellow in color across much of the body, with breeding males orange-scarlet on the head and neck. The species has a large and powerful bill, used to compete with other birds of Aldabra for food. Nesting occurs over several months, often in introduced coconut palms and Casuarina trees. The Aldabra fody is considered endangered by the IUCN, threatened by predation of nests and drought. Hybridization with the related Madagascar fody has occurred in the past, but is not currently considered a danger to the species.
Region
Western Indian Ocean
Typical Environment
Confined to the low-lying islands of the Aldabra Atoll, including areas of coastal scrub, open woodland, and strand vegetation. It readily uses human-altered habitats such as coconut groves and stands of Casuarina. The species forages from the ground layer to the canopy, often along edges where shrubs meet open areas. Nests are placed in palms or tall trees, sometimes forming loose clusters near suitable food and cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 20 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to the Aldabra Atoll of the Seychelles, this weaver was once treated as conspecific with the Comoros fody but is now recognized as a distinct species. Both sexes are largely yellow, while breeding males develop a striking orange-scarlet head and neck. It has a notably powerful bill used to exploit tough seeds and compete for scarce resources on the atoll. Nesting often occurs in introduced coconut palms and Casuarina trees, and the species is threatened by drought and nest predation.
The Aldabra fody is endemic to Aldabra (coast pictured), an atoll in Seychelles.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups or loose flocks outside the breeding season, with individuals defending territories around nest sites. Males build domed, woven nests of grass and fibers, typically suspended in palms or Casuarina; females select and line the nest. Breeding can span several months when conditions are favorable.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of sharp chips and twittering phrases delivered from exposed perches. Males intensify song during display near nests; alarm calls are harsher and more insistent.
