The black-necked weaver is a resident breeding bird species in much of central Africa from Cameroon in the west to Kenya and southern Somalia in the east.
Region
Central and East Africa
Typical Environment
Found from Cameroon and Gabon east through the Congo Basin to Uganda, Kenya, and southern Somalia. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, riverine woodland, swamp margins, and wooded gardens. The species adapts well to disturbed habitats, plantations, and village edges where large trees remain. It is typically absent from dense, unbroken primary forest interiors but common along clearings and watercourses.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This weaver is known for its intricate, suspended nests woven from strips of grass and palm fibers, often over water or in thorny trees. Males build multiple nests to attract females and breed in loose colonies. The extent of black on the head and throat varies among populations across its wide range. Its bright red eyes and bold throat patch make it easier to identify in shaded forest edges.
P. n. melanoxanthus
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in loose colonies, often near water. Males are polygynous and construct several pendant nests; females inspect and line the chosen nest. Nests are commonly placed in trees with overhanging branches, sometimes in association with other weaver species.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of harsh, chattering notes mixed with sizzling trills and buzzes. Males vocalize frequently around nest colonies, with calls accelerating during display flights.
Plumage
Compact weaver with bright yellow body, olive-green mantle and back, and a contrasting black throat/neck patch. The head is largely yellow in many populations, with the black extending through the throat and upper breast; females are duller with less extensive black. Wings show dusky flight feathers edged yellow-olive.
Diet
Takes a wide variety of insects such as beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers, especially during the breeding season. Also consumes seeds, grains, and small fruits. Will visit flowers for nectar and glean arthropods from foliage and twigs. Opportunistic forager around farms and gardens.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of woodland, along forest edges, and in bushy clearings. Often feeds in small groups, sometimes joining mixed-species parties in secondary growth and along waterways.
