Long-tailed Widowbird
NameLong-tailed Widowbird
Common NameLong-tailed Widowbird
Scientific NameEuplectes progne
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsBreeding males are entirely glossy black with extremely long, flowing tail feathers and prominent orange-red patches on the shoulders, with a buffy-white patch underneath. Non-breeding males and females are streaky brown and buff, resembling sparrows, with much shorter tails.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of buzzing, chattering, and whistling notes. Males often give a 'tsip' or 'chick' call and a buzzing 'zzzzzt' during their display flights.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Southern Africa, including South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Angola, Zambia, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo, preferring open grasslands and savannas.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long tail of breeding males, Glossy black plumage of breeding males, Bright orange-red shoulder patches, Undulating display flight
Description
The male Long-tailed Widowbird is renowned for its extraordinarily long tail feathers, which can be up to half a meter in length, used in spectacular display flights during the breeding season. This striking black bird with bright orange-red shoulder patches performs an undulating flight over grasslands to attract mates.
