Cassin's malimbe is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Ghana.
Region
Central Africa
Typical Environment
This species inhabits the Guineo-Congolian lowland rainforests, including primary and well-developed secondary forest. It favors vine-rich areas, forest edges, and clearings where lianas and hanging foliage are abundant. Birds are most often seen in the midstory to canopy, but will descend to lower levels along forest tracks. It may occur near riparian forest and swampy patches within the larger forest matrix.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Cassin's malimbe is a small forest weaver named after the American ornithologist John Cassin. It forages acrobatically in the midstory and canopy, often inspecting leaf clusters and lianas for hidden insects. Pairs or small groups frequently give duet-like calls. The species weaves neat, suspended nests from plant fibers, typically overhanging clearings or streams.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. The species is monogamous, with pairs maintaining small territories centered on nest sites. Nests are intricately woven and suspended from lianas or thin branches, often over openings or water.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The voice is a series of chattering notes and thin whistles, often delivered in antiphonal duets by a pair. Calls carry well through the midstory and can include metallic, tinkling elements.
Plumage
Glossy black body with contrasting scarlet on the forehead and throat/chin; feathers are sleek and close-fitting. The red areas are clean-edged against the dark body, giving a sharp, hooded look. Females tend to show slightly smaller or duller red patches.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects and other arthropods gleaned from leaves, flower clusters, and hanging dead foliage. It also takes small amounts of fruit and possibly nectar when available. Foraging involves agile clambering, probing, and picking prey from concealed surfaces.
Preferred Environment
Typically forages in the midstory and canopy of humid lowland forest, especially where vines and lianas are abundant. It uses forest edges, gaps, and along trails where foliage layers are accessible.
