The black-breasted weaver, also known as the Bengal weaver or black-throated weaver, is a weaver resident in the northern river plains of the Indian subcontinent. Like the other weavers, the males build an enclosed nest from reeds and mud, and visiting females select a mate at least partially based on the quality of the nest.
Region
Northern Indian Subcontinent
Typical Environment
Found across the riverine plains from northwestern India through the Ganges and Brahmaputra basins into Nepal and Bangladesh, with local occurrence in Pakistan. Prefers lowland wetlands, floodplains, and agricultural mosaics, especially rice paddies, marsh edges, and reed-fringed ponds. Nests are typically placed over water in tall grasses, reeds, or low shrubs. It persists well in human-modified habitats provided standing water and dense emergent vegetation remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Bengal or black-throated weaver, this species is notable for males plastering mud onto the outside of their woven nests—a rare behavior among weavers. Colonies are often set over water in reedbeds and rice paddies, where females judge males by nest quality before pairing. Breeding peaks with the monsoon when fresh grasses are abundant. They readily exploit agricultural landscapes and can be quite conspicuous during display.
A breeding male with buffy-white face and nape, on the shore of a reservoir in central India
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds colonially, with males building multiple elaborate, enclosed nests from strips of grass and reeds and often adding a mud coating. Females inspect and select nests before mating; the species is frequently polygynous. The female performs most incubation and brooding, while the male defends the territory and continues display.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of buzzy, metallic chatters and nasal notes delivered from prominent perches near colonies. Males vocalize persistently while displaying at nest sites, with excited trills and rattles during female inspections.
