Ruvu Weaver Ploceus holoxanthus Scientific name definitions

The Ruvu Weaver was first described as a species in 1891, but about two decades later the specimens were erroneously thought to be African Golden-Weaver (Ploceus subaureus). The only information known at that time was the plumage description of male and female, a few measurements, and the range consisting of only the type locality. In 2003, birds were seen that resembled the Ruvu Weaver, and since then there have been several observations and photographs taken of the species. Recently genetic work confirmed it as a species distinct from and not even closely related to the African Golden-Weaver. Relatively little is know about the breeding biology of the species, though two eggs have been photographed, one each from different nests, and one was light blue and one was light brown, both with very faint mottling. This variability in egg colors is found in many weaver species. Ruvu Weaver has a limited range in Tanzania, with a population size expected to be in the low thousands. It is likely to be Not globally threatened (Least Concern), but a population assessment is needed.