Usambara Weaver
Ploceus nicolli
An unusual weaver with dark upperparts, an orange bib, and a yellow belly. The male shows a yellowish forehead patch that the female lacks. Found very locally in the upper levels of montane forest, usually in pairs that often join mixed-species flocks. Creeps along branches like a nuthatch. Somewhat similar to Forest Weaver, but easily separated by the orange breast. Vocalizations include a “seet-swit” call that is unusual for a weaver and a “radio static” song with a distinctively rollicking rhythm.
Identification
The Usambara weaver (Ploceus nicolli) is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is endemic to Tanzania. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and plantations . It is threatened by habitat loss.
Taxonomy
Genus: Ploceus; Family: Ploceidae; Order: Passeriformes.
- Scientific name
- Ploceus nicolli
- Authority
- Sclater, WL, 1931
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Ploceidae
- Genus
- Ploceus
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Behavior
Migration pattern: Resident species.
Conservation
Population trend: declining.
- Population trend
- declining
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
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