The baglafecht weaver is a species of weaver bird from the family Ploceidae which is found in eastern and central Africa. There are several disjunct populations with distinguishable plumage patterns. Only some races display a discrete non-breeding plumage.
Region
East and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily from the Ethiopian Highlands south through Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania, with disjunct populations extending into parts of South Sudan and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. It favors forest edges, secondary woodland, riparian thickets, and montane scrub. The species is common in farms, coffee and banana plantations, and urban parks and gardens. It tolerates habitat mosaic and human-modified landscapes, provided some tree and shrub cover remain. Local movements may occur in response to food and breeding opportunities.
Altitude Range
1000–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Baglafecht weaver is a widespread East and Central African weaver that adapts well to gardens and forest edges, often occurring near human habitation. Several disjunct populations show distinct plumage, and only some subspecies develop a clear non-breeding (eclipse) plumage. Unlike many weavers, it often nests singly or in small loose groups rather than in large colonies. Males display at the nest by fluttering wings and calling to attract females.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in pairs, becoming more loosely social outside the breeding season. Nests are typically built singly or in small, loose clusters in shrubs or trees, rather than in dense colonies. The male weaves a rounded, suspended nest and displays to attract a mate; the female completes lining and incubates. Clutches are small, and both parents typically feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The voice is a mix of buzzy trills, scratchy chatters, and sharp chik or tzip notes. Males deliver more sustained chatter near the nest, with scolding calls when disturbed.
