The chestnut-backed sparrow-weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae.
Region
South-Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in southern and eastern Angola, western Zambia, and adjacent parts of Namibia and the southern Democratic Republic of the Congo. It favors dry open woodland, including miombo and mopane, as well as thorn savanna and bushland. Birds are often seen near clearings, village edges, and along tracks where they can forage on the ground. Nesting typically takes place in small colonies in tall thorn trees or acacias, often near water or open fields.
Altitude Range
200–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The chestnut-backed sparrow-weaver is a colonial weaver that constructs bulky, domed grass nests with side entrances in thorny trees and acacias. Like other sparrow-weavers, it practices cooperative breeding, with helpers assisting the dominant pair. It forages mostly on the ground for seeds and insects and often associates with open woodland and savanna edges.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forms small colonies that maintain communal nesting trees. Pairs are monogamous within colonies and often receive help from non-breeding helpers. They roost communally in their woven nests and defend nest trees against intruders.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of chattering notes, twitters, and short trills delivered from exposed perches near the nest tree. Calls include sharp chips and harsher scolds when alarmed.
Plumage
Warm chestnut mantle and back with darker wings and tail, contrasting with pale, buffy underparts. Head shows strong patterning with a bold supercilium and darker ear coverts; plumage is neat and sparrow-like but with weaver crispness. Feathers are smooth and close-fitting, giving a tidy appearance.
Diet
Feeds primarily on grass seeds and small grains, supplemented by insects such as termites, beetles, and ants, especially during the breeding season. It also takes buds and small fruits when available. Foraging is mostly on the ground, picking items from bare patches and low vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Open savanna, woodland edges, and lightly grazed fields where seeds are abundant. Frequently forages along tracks, around villages, and beneath nesting trees.
