Shaft-tailed Whydah
NameShaft-tailed Whydah
Common NameShaft-tailed Whydah
Scientific NameVidua regia
FamilyViduidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)40
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a black cap, bright yellow underparts, black back and wings, and a distinctive pinkish-red bill. Their most notable feature is the four extremely long, thin black tail feathers (shafts) that can reach up to 30-40 cm, ending in small spatulate tips. Females and non-breeding males are duller, with streaky brown upperparts and buffy underparts, lacking the elongated tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of soft chattering, buzzing, and whistling notes. They are known to mimic the calls of their host species, such as the Violet-eared Waxbill, to deceive the host parents.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in dry savannas and grasslands of Southern Africa, including parts of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long, thin black tail shafts (breeding male), Black cap, Yellow underparts, Pinkish-red bill, Brood parasitic behavior
Description
The Shaft-tailed Whydah is a small, finch-like bird known for its striking breeding plumage in males, featuring an exceptionally long, thin tail. This species is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other birds, primarily the Violet-eared Waxbill.
