Habitat:
Savannas, woodlands, marshes

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Southern Masked Weaver is a medium-sized African bird known for its exceptional nest-building skills. Males display a distinctive black head and bright yellow plumage, while females and juveniles are duller with brownish tones. They primarily inhabit savannas, woodlands, and marshes, feeding on seeds, insects, and nectar. Their song is a mix of chirps and whistles, often heard during the breeding season. Males construct intricate nests to attract females, using grass blades and leaves. These birds are social and live in colonies, making them fascinating to observe.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Southern Masked Weaver, focus on early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Use a 400mm lens or longer to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and observe their social behaviors, especially nest building. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera, especially if using a long focal length. Try to capture the interaction between males and females, as well as moments when they feed their young.