Birds
File:Euplectes axillaris, Linunga, Birding Weto, a.jpg

Fan-tailed Widowbird

Fan-tailed Widowbird

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The Fan-tailed Widowbird is a common African weaver. Breeding males are glossy black with orange or yellow shoulder patches and a distinctive fan-shaped tail during flight.
Where to spot
Widespread across much of sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting grasslands, savannas, and marshes, particularly near water.
How to spot
Look for the male's black plumage with vibrant shoulder patches. Watch for its characteristic display flight where the tail is fanned out, making it distinct.
When to spot
Most conspicuous during the breeding season (typically the rainy season) when males are in their striking plumage and perform aerial displays.
File:Euplectes axillaris, Linunga, Birding Weto, a.jpg
File:Euplectes axillaris axillaris 1838.jpg
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird^ Euplectes axillaris - Flickr - gailhampshire.jpg
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes axillaris) male ... (45721155655).jpg
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes axillaris) male ... (46538242582), crop.jpg
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes axillaris) male ... (46538242582).jpg
File:Luigi Balugani - Euplectes axillaris (Fan-tailed widowbirds) - B1977.14.8488(27) - Yale Center for British Art.jpg
File:Euplectes axillaris, Linunga, Birding Weto, a.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Euplectes axillaris axillaris 1838.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird^ Euplectes axillaris - Flickr - gailhampshire.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes axillaris) male ... (45721155655).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes axillaris) male ... (46538242582), crop.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Fan-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes axillaris) male ... (46538242582).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Luigi Balugani - Euplectes axillaris (Fan-tailed widowbirds) - B1977.14.8488(27) - Yale Center for British Art.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
The male's tail, though not exceptionally long, spreads out dramatically like a fan during its display flight, hence its common name.
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