The bar-winged weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia.
Region
South-Central Africa
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits mature and lightly disturbed miombo woodlands dominated by Brachystegia and Julbernardia in Angola, the southern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and western to north-central Zambia. Prefers areas with older trees, rough bark, and a semi-open understory. Also occurs along woodland edges, dambos, and in mosaics of dry woodland and savanna. It avoids dense rainforest and very open treeless savanna. Local presence is patchy, tracking quality miombo stands.
Altitude Range
900–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A scarce miombo-woodland specialist, the bar-winged weaver is notable for its bold pale wing-bars and bark-gleaning foraging style. It often works along trunks and larger branches, prying insects from fissured bark. Unlike many colonial weavers, it is typically encountered in pairs or small family groups. Habitat loss in miombo regions can locally affect its numbers.
Temperament
active and alert; usually shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulating hops between trees
Social Behavior
Most often seen in pairs or small family parties, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in miombo. Nests are woven and suspended from branches, with males playing a key role in construction. Breeding generally coincides with the onset of rains, when insect prey peaks. Territoriality is moderate around nesting sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched series of trills and buzzy chips delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include sharp tsee and soft chatter notes exchanged between mates while foraging.
