Social Structure
This bird is never found in large flocks, but is often observed in smaller groups, in pairs, or by itself.
Communication
Its typical song is a complex mix of buzzing churrs and loud calls of “zwink zwink.” Although the baglafecht weaver has several distinct races, they all have similar calls.
Behavior
Monogamous and territorial, this weaver is a solitary nester, although two pairs can sometimes be found nesting in the same area.
Conservation
Least concern
Diet
This bird is not a picky eater—insects, seeds, plants, fruit, and nectar are all on the menu. It searches for insects and other food in dry leaf clusters and branches, and brings home spiders, larvae, crickets, beetles, and other prey small enough to feed to its young.
Breeding
Hanging from a frond or branch, a nest is carefully concealed by foliage. Only the male builds the nest, and then the male and female work together to line the nest with grass, feathers, and other material. Around 1-3 eggs are laid in each clutch. Chicks are fed by the female for the first few days, and then the male joins in as well.
Friends & Foes
In 2013, an observer published reports about a velvet monkey that was seen raiding a baglafecht weaver nest in Kenya.
Population in Kenya
Pairs are common in the Kenya highlands.
Range & Habitat
Several subspecies have been identified in Eritrea, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia, and Malawi.
It can be found in a range of habitats, including forest edges, cultivated landscapes, gardens, and open woodlands.