Lesser Masked-Weaver

Fairly common, localised resident. Noticeably smaller than [Southern Masked-Weaver] and [Village Weaver]. Breeding male differs from males of those species in pale yellow eyes, rounded (not pointed) bib and black mask extending over the top of the head; female more yellow at all times. Legs of both sexes blue-grey, not pinkish brown like [Southern Masked-Weaver] and [Village Weaver]. Immature is like female but whitish on belly. Utters swizzling sounds typical of most weavers, especially when nesting. Occurs in thornveld, mixed bushveld and riverine forests, being attracted to Acacia trees or reeds when breeding. Colonies often large and sometimes with Southern Masked-Weaver or Village Weaver.