Long-tailed Widowbird
Long-tailed Widowbird
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The Long-tailed Widowbird is one of the most iconic African weavers, famous for the male's extraordinarily long tail, which can be up to three times its body length. Breeding males are entirely glossy black.
Where to spot
Found in southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Inhabits open grasslands and agricultural fields.
How to spot
Look for the male's unbelievably long tail as it flies slowly over grasslands. They are hard to miss when displaying. Females are plain streaky brown.
When to spot
Most conspicuous during the breeding season (summer in the Southern Hemisphere, roughly November to April) when males are in full breeding plumage and performing their spectacular slow-flight displays.
Where to spot
Found in southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Inhabits open grasslands and agricultural fields.
How to spot
Look for the male's unbelievably long tail as it flies slowly over grasslands. They are hard to miss when displaying. Females are plain streaky brown.
When to spot
Most conspicuous during the breeding season (summer in the Southern Hemisphere, roughly November to April) when males are in full breeding plumage and performing their spectacular slow-flight displays.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The male's impressive tail is a handicap in flight but is a strong indicator of genetic fitness to females, making it a classic example of sexual selection.
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