Golden-backed Weaver

Ploceus jacksoni

Family: Weavers and Allies · Status: Uncommon introduced resident · Size: 15 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Native to eastern Africa, from southern South Sudan and Uganda through Kenya, Tanzania, and Burundi. Introduced in Singapore.

Identification

Breeding male has bright yellow plumage with entirely black head, red iris, and brown-orange underparts. Non-breeding male has olive-brown streaked upperparts, yellow supercilium, and pale yellow underparts. Female is dull yellow with less prominent wing streaks and more yellow than brown overall. Distinguished from female Baya Weaver by brigther yellow plumage, yellow-fringed coverts and flight feathers, and slimmer bill with dark upper mandible.

Habitat

Grasslands, wetland margins, and scrub near water.

Behaviour

Builds oval woven nests lacking an entrance tunnel, often over water in reeds or grassland.