Golden-backed Bishop
NameGolden-backed Bishop
Common NameGolden-backed Bishop
Scientific NameEuplectes aureus
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsThe breeding male has a glossy black head, throat, breast, belly, wings, and tail. A vibrant golden-yellow covers the back, rump, and upper tail coverts, creating a prominent 'golden-backed' appearance. Non-breeding males and females are streaky brown and much less conspicuous.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of a series of buzzing, chattering, and wheezing notes, often delivered from a prominent perch within its territory.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, located in the Gulf of Guinea off the west coast of Central Africa.
Identifying Featuresbright golden-yellow back and rump (breeding male), all-black head and underparts (breeding male), small size, conical bill
Description
A small, sexually dimorphic weaver bird, the male Golden-backed Bishop in breeding plumage is strikingly colored with a black body and a bright golden-yellow mantle and rump. These birds are often found perching on tall grasses or reeds in their island habitats.
