Euplectes aureus
The Golden-backed Bishop, *Euplectes aureus*, is a spectacular small passerine bird, renowned for the male's dazzling breeding plumage. Adult males measure approximately 10-12 cm in length and weigh between 10-20 grams, showcasing a brilliant golden-yellow across the crown, nape, back, and rump, sharply contrasted by a velvety black face, throat, breast, belly, and wings. This striking sexual dimorphism is a hallmark of the species; females and non-breeding males are comparatively drab, sport...
This species primarily inhabits open grasslands, marshy areas, cultivated fields, and clearings, often found near water bodies or reedbeds. It is typically observed at low elevations, from sea level up to around 600 meters.
The Golden-backed Bishop's diet primarily consists of seeds from various grasses and herbaceous plants, supplemented with insects, especially during the breeding season.
Golden-backed Bishops are diurnal and highly social outside the breeding season, forming large, often mixed-species flocks that roost communally in dense vegetation. During the breeding season, males become intensely territorial, defending a small patch of prime nesting habitat with vigorous aeri...
The native range of the Golden-backed Bishop is highly restricted, endemic solely to the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Central Africa. Within this native range, they are resident year-round, inhabiting open country from coastal lowlands up to approx...
Least Concern
- The male Golden-backed Bishop undergoes one of the most dramatic plumage transformations in the avian world, changing from a cryptic brown to brilliant golden and black for breeding. - Males are highly polygynous, often mating with up to seven or more females in a single breeding season. - Part...