White-winged Widowbird
NameWhite-winged Widowbird
Common NameWhite-winged Widowbird
Scientific NameEuplectes albonotatus
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsBreeding males are entirely glossy black with conspicuous white patches on the shoulders/wings, and a moderately long tail. Females and non-breeding males are streaky brown above, paler below, with a buff supercilium and streaked flanks, resembling a sparrow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a buzzing 'zzzt' or 'tseep' call, often given during the male's display flight. They also produce chattering or squeaky notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in various parts of sub-Saharan Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Identifying FeaturesBreeding male's glossy black plumage with prominent white wing patches, Long tail of breeding male, Aerial display flight of breeding male, Streaky brown, sparrow-like appearance of female and non-breeding male
Description
The White-winged Widowbird is a small passerine known for its striking sexual dimorphism. Breeding males are glossy black with prominent white wing patches and a long tail, performing aerial displays over grasslands. Females and non-breeding males are streaky brown and more inconspicuous.
