Region

Upper Guinea Forests of West Africa

Typical Environment

Occurs in lowland and foothill evergreen rainforest, favoring mature, closed-canopy forest and well-developed secondary growth. It primarily uses the canopy and midstory, moving along liana tangles and leaf clusters where arthropods accumulate. The species tolerates lightly logged forest but declines sharply with heavy fragmentation. It is closely associated with intact forest blocks near the Sierra Leone–Liberia border.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 800 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Temperament

elusive and canopy-dwelling

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Often joins small mixed-species flocks in the canopy, moving methodically through foliage in pairs or family groups. Like other weavers, it constructs elaborate suspended nests, likely placed over clearings or stream edges in forest interiors. Breeding behavior is poorly documented due to its secretive habits and remote habitat.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of thin, metallic notes and chattering phrases, delivered from high perches within the canopy. Calls are sharp and contact-like, aiding flock cohesion while foraging. Vocalizations carry well through dense foliage even when the bird remains hidden.

Diet

Primarily takes arthropods, gleaning insects, spiders, and larvae from leaves, twigs, and suspended dead leaf clusters. It probes leaf-rolls and liana tangles and occasionally hawks short distances for flushed prey. Small amounts of fruit or nectar may supplement its diet when available.

Preferred Environment

Feeds mainly in the upper midstory and canopy of intact or lightly disturbed rainforest. It works along edges of gaps, along lianas, and in crowns where insect density is high. Participation in mixed flocks helps it exploit ephemeral food patches.