Ploceidae

Black-headed weaver (Ploceus cucullatus bohndorffi) male nest building

Red-billed Buffalo Weaver

Dinemellia dinemelli

Plocepasser mahali -Baringo Lake, Kenya -male-8

Weaver bird

Black-capped Social-Weaver - Samburu - Kenya S4E5139 (22836895922)

Ploceidae is a family of small passerine birds, known as weavers or weaverbirds due to their elaborately woven nests. This family is native primarily to Sub-Saharan Africa, with a few species extending into tropical Asia. Members of the Ploceidae family are highly social and are known for their unique nesting behaviors, where males often construct intricate nests from grasses and other plant materials to attract females.

Characteristics

Ploceidae species vary in size from small to medium and exhibit moderate sexual dimorphism, with males often being more brightly colored than females. They have strong, conical beaks adapted for seed eating, though their diet can also include insects, especially during the breeding season. Their plumage varies widely among species, ranging from dull colors to bright yellows and reds.

Habitat and Distribution

Weaverbirds inhabit a variety of environments including savannahs, forests, and grasslands, as well as agricultural lands and urban areas where they can find food and suitable nesting sites. Their ability to live in diverse habitats has allowed some species to thrive near human settlements.

Behavior and Ecology

The social structure of Ploceidae species can vary from solitary to highly gregarious. Many weavers are known for their communal nesting colonies, which can contain hundreds of nests in a single tree or area. These nests are often elaborately woven from grasses and other plant fibers and are designed to hang from branches, providing protection from predators.

Breeding behaviors are also notable in this family, with males typically taking on the responsibility of constructing the nests to attract females. The quality and complexity of the nest can play a significant role in the male's success in attracting a mate. After a female selects a mate and nest, she will lay and incubate the eggs, with both parents usually involved in feeding the young.

Conservation

While many species within the Ploceidae family are abundant and not currently at risk, habitat destruction and changes in agricultural practices have led to declines in some species. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat preservation and research to better understand the ecological needs of these birds.

Classification

The Ploceidae family includes a variety of genera and species, with the weaverbirds being the most well-known group. Other notable groups within the family include the bishop birds and the widowbirds, known for their vibrant breeding plumage and elaborate courtship displays.