Maxwell's black weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae.
Region
Upper Guinea Forests of West Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from Guinea and Sierra Leone through Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire to southwestern Ghana. It inhabits lowland and foothill evergreen forests, forest edges, riparian gallery forest, and older secondary growth. Birds readily use wooded farmland and cocoa or oil-palm plantations adjacent to forest. Nests are typically placed over water or along forest margins where dangling vegetation provides anchoring sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Maxwell's black weaver is a West African forest weaver notable for its dark plumage and a pale nape patch hinted at by its scientific name. Males weave intricate, pendulous nests from grass strips to attract females. It often forages at forest edges and in secondary growth, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. Its presence can indicate relatively intact lowland forest habitat.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups or loose colonies, especially during the breeding season. Males weave pendant nests from strips of grass or palm fronds, typically suspended from outer branches above water or open space. Courtship includes nest display and vocalizations near the nest. Outside breeding, it may join mixed feeding flocks along forest edges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are a series of harsh chatters, buzzy trills, and metallic notes typical of weavers. Song bouts are delivered from exposed perches near nesting sites and during display. Contact calls keep small groups coordinated while foraging.
Plumage
Mostly glossy to soot-black with a contrasting pale nape patch; feathers can show a slight sheen in good light. Females and immatures may appear duller with browner tones.
Diet
Eats a mix of insects and other small invertebrates, along with seeds, grains, and small fruits. In the breeding season it takes more animal prey to feed nestlings. It may also sip nectar or raid cultivated crops at forest margins. Foraging is active and probing, gleaning from foliage and seed heads.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, clearings, and in secondary growth where grasses and fruiting shrubs are abundant. Frequently visits cocoa and oil-palm plantations and roadsides adjacent to forest.
