The chestnut-and-black weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in West Africa from Sierra Leone to southern Nigeria.
Region
West Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from Sierra Leone east through Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and into southern Nigeria. It favors lowland moist forests, forest edges, riparian and swamp forests, mangrove margins, secondary growth, and tree-dotted farmland. Colonies are often placed near water, including marshes and flooded thickets. It adapts to disturbed habitats where tall shrubs and small trees provide nesting sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A colonial weaver of West African forests and edges, it is named for the male’s striking contrast of chestnut and black. Males intricately weave pendant nests, often over water or in swampy thickets, to entice females. They frequently nest in loose colonies and may associate with other weaver species. Their flexibility in using secondary growth and farmlands helps them persist near human activity.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
A colonial nester that builds pendant, woven nests on slender branches, often over water for protection. Males construct multiple nests and display to attract females; females line and complete chosen nests. Outside the breeding season it forages in small flocks, sometimes joining mixed-species groups.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A busy series of chatters, buzzes, and rasping trills delivered from canopy perches near colonies. Calls are metallic and repetitive, with increased intensity during courtship and nest-building.
