White-headed buffalo weaver in exhibit

White-headed Buffalo Weaver

Scientific Name
Dinemellia dinemelli
Class
Aves
Order
Passeriformes
Range
Eastern Africa, from Tanzania to Somalia
Habitat
Savannas and dry brush
Estimated Wild Population
n/a
White-headed buffalo weaver in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern

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Physical Description

White-headed buffalo weavers have a black tail and wings; an orange rump; and a white nape, forehead, and crown. They forage on the ground for insects, seeds, and fruit.

Interesting Fact 1

White-headed buffalo weavers were named for their elaborate nests, which often have multiple compartments and tunnels, that they “weave” together using thorny branches.

Interesting Fact 2

Their nests are so elaborate and well-made that other birds often use their vacant nests instead of building their own.

Interesting Fact 3

During courtship displays, males and females vocalize, raise and lower themselves simultaneously while perching, and extend their wings to display white underfeathers.

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We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.

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