Village Weaver

Common resident. Breeding male identified by spotted back and, in the northern race (a), by entirely black head; in the southern race (b) by the clear yellow crown with black only on face and throat; eyes red. Female has yellow breast, white underparts and brown eyes. Non-breeding male like female but retains the red eyes. Breeds in colonies, often large, in thorn trees overhanging water, sometimes in reeds or away from water in exotic trees at farms and in suburbia. Male displays by hanging beneath the nest, swinging from side to side with quivering wings while making husky swizzling sounds. Nomadic in flocks when not breeding.