Weaver birds belong to the order Passeriformes. Most species are found in Africa. They are less common on the islands of the Indian Ocean and in Asia.
There are four different species of weaver bird in Madagascar. The Madagascar red fody is the most common bird in Madagascar.
During the breeding season, the males of the Madagascar red fody stand out because of their red plumage. At other times of the year, they look very similar to the females and young birds. At such times, these birds can easily be mistaken for our ‘sparrows’ (house sparrows).
During the breeding season, the Madagascar red fody lives in pairs; at other times of the year, it lives in larger groups of up to several hundred birds. This species also inhabits completely deforested areas, savannahs, gardens and parks.
The Madagascar red fody feeds on grass seeds, rice grains and nectar; during the breeding season, it also feeds on insects, spiders and caterpillars.
The spherical nest is built about two metres above the ground, suspended from a branch. It is made of woven grasses. A short, wide entrance tunnel is woven into the side of the upper part of the nest. The female lays three to four eggs in the nest.
The Madagascar red fody has been introduced to the islands off the coast of Madagascar (the Seychelles, the Comoros, La Réunion, Mauritius and Rodrigues).
Taxonomy
Ploceidae, Foudia (7 species)
Habitat
sparse forests, savannahs, agricultural areas, settlements at altitudes of up to 2,500 metres above sea level
Migratory behaviour
sedentary
Social structure
in large flocks; during the breeding season, in pairs and territorial
