The Katanga masked weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in south-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and northern Zambia.
Region
South-central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in south-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and adjoining northern Zambia, especially on the Katanga Plateau. It favors open savannas, miombo woodland edges, riparian thickets, and wetland margins with reeds or bushes. It also uses dambos, seasonally flooded grasslands, and agricultural mosaics where shrubs and small trees are available for nesting. Colonies are typically placed near water in shrubs or small trees.
Altitude Range
900–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Katanga masked weaver forms noisy breeding colonies and the males weave intricate, pendulous nests from fresh grass strips, often over water to deter predators. Females inspect multiple nests and choose mates partly based on nest quality. Like other weavers, it can adapt to lightly altered habitats near villages and fields. Its restricted range centers on the Katanga Plateau and adjacent areas of northern Zambia.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Highly colonial during breeding, with several to dozens of nests in a single tree or reedbed. Males are polygynous and construct multiple nests, often displaying while hanging below them. Nests are typically suspended over water or in thorny shrubs to reduce predation risk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A busy chorus of chattering, buzzy trills, and scolding notes interspersed with sharp chips. Males give rapid, repetitive phrases while displaying at the nest, creating a constant background chatter around colonies.
