Red-billed buffalo weaver

The red-billed buffalo weaver is a captivating bird species from the Ploceidae family, native to the arid savannas of eastern and southern Africa. These birds are among the largest in the weaver bird category. Males are particularly striking with their dark chocolate-brown plumage, white wing spots, and vivid red bills. Females share the same color scheme but are distinguished by their white throat feathers.

Their diet is quite diverse, comprising insects, seeds, and fruits, and they primarily forage on the ground. They are commonly found in colonies within dry savannas and sparse woodlands, often near human settlements.

Socially, red-billed buffalo weavers are observed in small family groups or larger flocks. The males are polygamous, mating with multiple females and overseeing several nest chambers. Females take on the primary responsibility for feeding the chicks. These birds breed in colonies, constructing nests from thorny twigs, with smaller nests inside. Intriguingly, males have a pseudo-penis, used to attract females. Their breeding season spans from September to June, during which females lay 2-4 eggs and incubate them for about 14 days.