Euplectes ardens
The Red-collared Widowbird, *Euplectes ardens*, is a strikingly sexually dimorphic passerine bird belonging to the weaver family, Ploceidae. Breeding males are unmistakable, characterized by a predominantly glossy black plumage with a prominent, vibrant red crescent or 'collar' on the nape, a feature that gives the species its common name. Their most remarkable physical attribute is an extraordinarily long, broad tail, which can reach up to 15-20 cm, often more than double their body length o...
This species thrives in moist grasslands, open savanna, and cultivated agricultural fields, often favoring areas with tall grasses near water sources. It is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to around 2,000 meters.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on small grass seeds, supplemented with a variety of insects, especially during the breeding season.
Red-collared Widowbirds are diurnal, spending their days foraging and displaying, and often congregating in communal roosts in reeds or tall grasses outside the breeding season. During the breeding season, males are fiercely territorial, defending patches of grassland where they aim to attract mu...
The Red-collared Widowbird has a widespread but disjunct distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily inhabiting grasslands and savannas. Its range extends from the Ethiopian Highlands, through parts of Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, westwards into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, ...
Least Concern
- The breeding male's tail can be twice as long as its body, a feature used to attract mates through a slow, exaggerated flight display. - Males are highly polygynous, often having several mates within their territory during a single breeding season. - The dramatic red 'collar' on the male's nape...