The Cape weaver, Ploceus capensis, is a robust bird, measuring 17 cm in length, with olive-brown streaked upperparts and a sharply pointed conical bill. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism.
During the breeding season, the male Cape weaver is resplendent with a bright yellow head and underparts, an orange visage, and striking white irises. The adult female, however, sports an olive-yellow head and breast, which fades to a paler yellow on the lower belly. While females typically have brown eyes, a small percentage may display pale eyes during the summer months. Juveniles resemble the female in plumage.
The Cape weaver thrives in open grasslands, lowland fynbos, coastal thickets, and agricultural landscapes, provided there is a consistent presence of water and suitable trees for nesting.
This bird is endemic to the southern reaches of Africa, specifically South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Its range extends from the Northern Cape's Orange River, southward to the Cape of Good Hope, and eastward to northern KwaZulu Natal, almost reaching Bloemfontein in the Free State.
