Bates's weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is endemic to Cameroon, and is often regarded as inexplicably rare across its distribution.
Region
West-Central Africa
Typical Environment
This species inhabits lowland and foothill rainforest in southwestern Cameroon, using dense primary forest as well as edges and secondary growth. It forages high in the mid-story and canopy, often near gaps, rivers, and forest clearings. Nests are placed in trees or palms, sometimes over water, where hanging vegetation offers support and concealment.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Bates's weaver is a little-known forest weaver named after the naturalist George Latimer Bates. It is endemic to Cameroon and is inexplicably rare, likely overlooked due to its canopy-dwelling habits and quiet demeanor. Like other weavers, it builds suspended, intricately woven nests.
Temperament
secretive and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through the canopy
Social Behavior
Typically found in small parties or loose mixed flocks in the forest canopy. Breeding involves weaving suspended nests, with colonies or small clusters where suitable sites occur. Pairs are thought to be seasonal, with both sexes attending the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, thin twittering notes interspersed with brief trills and chips. The song is subdued and easily masked by other forest sounds, while contact calls are short and high-pitched.
Plumage
Subtle, mostly olive-yellow plumage with darker olive upperparts and slightly brighter yellowish underparts; wings and tail are duskier with faint edging.
Diet
Feeds on a mix of small insects and other arthropods, along with seeds and soft fruits. It gleans prey from foliage and bark and occasionally sallies to catch small flying insects. Seasonal availability of fruits and seeds likely influences its foraging choices.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-story to canopy along forest edges, light gaps, and near riverine corridors. It also uses secondary growth and tall thickets adjoining mature forest.
