Buff-shouldered Widowbird
NameBuff-shouldered Widowbird
Common NameBuff-shouldered Widowbird
Scientific NameEuplectes axillaris
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsBreeding males are entirely glossy black with a prominent buff to orange-yellow patch on the lesser coverts (shoulder) and distinct white primary coverts, visible as a white patch below the buff. Non-breeding males and females are streaky brown, resembling sparrows, with a pale supercilium and often a buffy wash on the underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of buzzing and chattering notes, often given during display flights. Typical calls are a sharp 'tssip' and a drawn-out 'zzzzzzzz' trill, sometimes described as a 'chip-chip-churr' song.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa (e.g., Sierra Leone) east to Ethiopia and south through East Africa to Southern Africa (e.g., South Africa), typically in fragmented populations associated with suitable wetland and grassland habitats.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black plumage (breeding male), Prominent buff/orange-yellow shoulder patch, White primary coverts, Conical bill, Prefers marshy grasslands and reedbeds
Description
The Buff-shouldered Widowbird is a medium-sized weaver, with breeding males displaying striking glossy black plumage accented by prominent buff to orange-yellow shoulder patches and white primary coverts. They are often found in marshy grasslands and reedbeds, where males perform aerial displays to attract mates. This species is known for its polygynous breeding system.
