The brown-capped weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in Angola, Burundi, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Region
Central and East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from the forests of Nigeria and Cameroon across the Congo Basin to western Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and northwestern Tanzania. It favors lowland and montane forest edges, clearings, swampy forest, and secondary growth, as well as riverine thickets. It is often found near villages where forest persists, and may forage in adjacent plantations. Local densities can be higher where mixed woodland and forest mosaics provide nesting and feeding opportunities.
Altitude Range
0–2400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The brown-capped weaver is a forest-edge and montane weaver that builds intricate, woven nests suspended from branches, often near water or in clearings. Males do most of the weaving and display to attract females, and small colonies may form where suitable nesting sites cluster. Its flexible diet and use of secondary growth help it persist in human-altered landscapes. Despite this, it still relies on forest mosaics and dense vegetation for nesting and cover.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms small colonies or loose groups, especially at nesting sites along forest edges and waterways. Males weave pendant nests from strips of grass and palm fibers and display near the entrance; females inspect and accept or reject nests. Breeding typically follows seasonal rains, and pairs may be socially polygynous in colony settings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of chatters, buzzes, and trills interspersed with harsh notes typical of weavers. Males become more vocal around colonies, delivering rapid, repetitive phrases during display.
