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Weaver Wednesday 4 [267] - Weaver themes [4]: Genus Pseudonigrita

2017-07-26 (792)

Weaver Wednesday 4: Weaver themes (Series)

Genus Pseudonigrita

There are two species in the genus Pseudonigrita, this name meaning "false waxbill". They are small, social weavers of semi-arid parts in East Africa. The two species are distinguished by having a grey or black cap, on which the English names are based.

They forage on the ground, feeding mainly on seeds, and also insects.

Both species are colonial, monogamous, cooperative breeders, and build single nests of straight grass stems, which are clustered in groups in trees. Nests in a colony may touch or merge. Both sexes add nest material throughout the year. Nests have two entrances and are used for roosting. In breeding nests one entrance is closed. The breeding nest is used by a single pair.

The Pseudonigrita species
Grey-headed Social Weaver Pseudonigrita arnaudi
Black-capped Social Weaver Pseudonigrita cabanisi