Euplectes psammacromius
The Montane Widowbird (*Euplectes psammacromius*) is a striking passerine from the family Ploceidae, renowned for the dramatic sexual dimorphism displayed during its breeding season. Measuring approximately 18-20 cm in length, with breeding males sporting an impressive tail that can add another 10-15 cm, it's a medium-sized weaver. Males in breeding plumage are almost entirely velvety black, spectacularly adorned with brilliant yellow lesser coverts (shoulder patches) and rich rufous-chestnut...
Exclusively found in montane grasslands, often near marshes or damp areas, at elevations typically ranging from 1,500 to 2,800 meters above sea level.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on a wide variety of grass seeds, supplemented with insects (especially caterpillars and termites) during the breeding season for protein.
During the non-breeding season, Montane Widowbirds are diurnal and gregarious, forming mixed-species flocks with other weavers and estrildids, often roosting communally in dense reedbeds or tall grasses. Foraging primarily involves gleaning seeds from the ground, especially those of grasses, thou...
The Montane Widowbird is endemic to the montane grasslands of central and eastern Africa. Its range extends discontinuously across several countries, including the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, southwestern Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, western Tanzania, Malawi, northeastern Zambia, and northe...
Least Concern
- The Montane Widowbird's scientific name, *psammacromius*, derives from Greek 'psammo' (sand) and 'acromius' (shoulder blade), possibly referring to the specific texture or color of its shoulder patches. - Male Montane Widowbirds undergo one of the most dramatic plumage transformations in the av...