Ploceus velatus
The southern masked weaver is a common passerine bird native to Southern Africa.
Southern masked weaver behavior and facts
- The southern masked weaver is found in a variety of habitats including shrubland, savanna, grassland, open woodland, inland wetlands, semi-desert areas, suburban gardens and parks.
- It feeds on insects, seeds and nectar.
From birth to death
- Weavers create a globe-shaped nest by weaving, knotting and stitching grasses together. These hanging globes help weavers evade predators.
- They are capable of tying complex knots such as the half-hitch, overhand and slipknot.
- Female weavers prefer nests made from new material.
- Clutch: 2-5 eggs
Status
IUCN least concern
Southern masked weavers, the Oregon Zoo and you
The zoo's southern masked weavers live in the Howard Vollum Aviary exhibit.