The Rodrigues fody is a rare species of bird in the weaver family. It is endemic to Rodrigues, an island of Mauritius. It is classified by BirdLife International as being vulnerable. It is also on the United States' Endangered Species List with an endangered status.
Region
Mascarene Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs across Rodrigues in remnants of native woodland, coastal scrub, and mixed secondary growth. It also uses plantations, orchards, and gardens where shrubs and trees provide cover and foraging. The species tolerates degraded habitats but nests most reliably where woody vegetation is present. It forages from ground level to the canopy, often along edges and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Rodrigues fody is a small weaver that has responded well to conservation actions such as predator control and habitat restoration. Males become a brighter golden-yellow in the breeding season, while females remain more subdued and streaked. It is endemic to Rodrigues (Mauritius) and has been listed as Vulnerable by BirdLife International, and is on the U.S. Endangered Species List.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small flocks that move through shrubs and trees in search of food. During breeding, pairs defend small territories and the male weaves a globular grass nest suspended in vegetation. Nesting often occurs in loose colonies where suitable shrubs or trees are clustered.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, tinkling series of chirps and trills interspersed with chattering notes. Males sing from exposed perches to advertise territory and attract mates, with frequent soft contact calls within foraging groups.
