The thick-billed weaver, or grosbeak weaver, is a distinctive and bold species of weaver bird that is native to the Afrotropics. It belongs to the monotypic genus Amblyospiza and subfamily Amblyospizinae.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found widely from West through East to Southern Africa, especially around lakes, marshes, and slow-flowing rivers. Prefers dense emergent vegetation such as reeds, bulrushes, and papyrus, as well as rank grass near water. It can also occur in rice fields, sugarcane, and wet suburban gardens with suitable cover. In drier periods it concentrates at permanent wetlands and along dam margins.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the grosbeak weaver, this species is the sole member of the genus Amblyospiza and subfamily Amblyospizinae. Its massive, powerful bill allows it to crack very hard grass and sedge seeds that many other weavers cannot exploit. Males weave thick, oval nests with a vertical slit entrance, often over water in reedbeds. They are typically resident but can make local movements following seeding grasses and changing water levels.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often nests in loose colonies within reedbeds or rank waterside vegetation. Males construct several thick-walled nests and display to attract females; females line the chosen nest and attend the young. Territorial around nest sites, but otherwise forms small flocks outside breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of harsh, metallic notes and chattering phrases, often delivered from exposed perches above reeds. Calls include sharp ticks and clinks, with mechanical-sounding elements during display.
