Chunky, big-billed weaver of dry country. Yellow-hooded breeding male is distinctive. Both sexes have pink bare skin around the eye. Madagascar endemic that is found in the north and west at low and middle elevation. Preferred habitats include open forest, scrub, plantations, savannah, and villages. Very social weaver that is almost always found in flocks, sometimes mixed with other birds, and which nests in bustling colonies. The nest is a messy hanging orb. Song is a complex, high-pitched series of scolding and sizzling notes. Call is a husky “chert.” Female and non-breeding male similar to fodies, but separated by larger size, bigger bill, pink facial skin, and different facial pattern.