Sociable weaver

                                    Sociable weaver

The sociable weaver (Philetairus socius), also commonly known as the common social weaver, common social-weaver, and social weaver,^[2] is a species of bird in the Weaver family endemic to Southern Africa.^[3] It is the only species assigned to the genus Philetairus.^[4] It is found in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.^[1] but their range is centered within the Northern Cape Province of South Africa.^[5] They build large compound community nests, a rarity among birds. These nests are perhaps the most spectacular structure built by any bird.^[6]

Based on recent DNA-analysis, Philetairus socius belongs to the group of sparrow weavers (subfamily Plocepasserinae) and is most related to the genus Pseudonigrita. These two genera are the sister group of the genus Plocepasser. The most basic genus of the subfamily is Sporopipes.^[7] Provided that genera are correct clades, the following tree expresses current insights.