Bocage's weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in riparian zones of Angola, southern Democratic Republic of the Congo and northwestern Zambia.
Region
South-Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in riparian zones and gallery forests of Angola, southern Democratic Republic of the Congo (including the Katanga region), and northwestern Zambia. It favors river edges, floodplains, and wet thickets, often with reeds, papyrus, or overhanging shrubs and trees. The species also uses moist woodland and miombo edges near water and can forage in nearby cultivated fields. Colonies are typically placed over or adjacent to water for protection.
Altitude Range
200–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Bocage's weaver is a colonial nest-builder that weaves intricately woven, hanging nests from grass strips, often suspended over water to deter predators. Males display bright breeding plumage and construct multiple nests to attract females, a classic weaver behavior. The species is closely tied to riparian habitats and gallery vegetation. It is named in honor of the Portuguese naturalist José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Highly colonial during breeding, with numerous nests clustered in one site, usually over water. Males weave multiple nests and may be polygynous, while females perform most incubation and chick-rearing. Nests are retort-shaped or oval, woven from fresh grass blades and typically attached to flexible branches or reed stems.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A busy chorus of sharp chitters, buzzy twitters, and scratchy trills delivered continuously around colonies. Calls include harsh scolds and softer contact notes while foraging.
