Red-vented malimbe

The red-vented malimbe is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in Benin, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Togo. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical swamps.

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Distribution

Region

West Africa

Typical Environment

Occurs in lowland swamp forests, flooded riverine woodlands, and edges of tropical moist forests. It favors areas with raffia and other palms, gallery forests along slow-moving rivers, and backwater lagoons. Birds often keep to the subcanopy and canopy, moving methodically through foliage and lianas. Nests are usually placed over water in swampy clearings or along shaded streams.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 800 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size17–20 cm

Wing Span22–28 cm

Male Weight0.035 kg

Female Weight0.032 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The red-vented malimbe is a forest weaver known for its bright red vent contrasting with otherwise glossy black plumage. It weaves intricate, pendant nests, often suspended over water to deter predators. Typically quiet and unobtrusive, it forages in pairs or small groups in the mid to upper canopy.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks in the canopy. It builds finely woven, hanging nests, often placed above water courses. Breeding pairs defend a small territory around nest sites but may nest semi-colonially where habitat is suitable.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song consists of soft, chattering phrases and thin whistles, delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp chips and rattling trills used to keep contact within pairs.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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