Rüppell's weaver is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae, which is native to the northern Afrotropics. The species is named after the German zoologist and explorer Eduard Rüppell (1794–1884).
Region
Horn of Africa and southwestern Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in northeastern Africa, including Eritrea, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia, and adjacent parts of Sudan and South Sudan, with populations extending across the Red Sea into Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia. It favors dry savannas, thorn scrub, coastal plains, wadis, and cultivated areas. The species adapts well to oases, towns, and gardens where suitable nesting trees are present. Colonies are often found in acacias, palms, and other thorny or flexible-canopied trees, sometimes near water for added protection.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Rüppell's weaver is a colonial weaver named after the German zoologist Eduard Rüppell. Males intricately weave multiple pendant nests from grass and palm strips to attract females, often over water or in thorny trees. It readily uses human-dominated habitats such as villages and plantations and can form noisy colonies near dwellings.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Highly colonial, nesting in clusters where males weave several nests and display to attract females. Polygynous tendencies are common, and nests are frequently placed in thorny trees or palms for protection. They tolerate proximity to humans and may nest in gardens or plantations.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively, chattering series of buzzy trills, wheezy notes, and scolding calls delivered from within colonies. Males vocalize persistently during nest-building and display, creating a constant background chorus.
