Vidua togoensis
The Togo Paradise Whydah (*Vidua togoensis*) is an enchanting passerine known for its striking sexual dimorphism, particularly during the breeding season. Males in breeding plumage are a spectacle, sporting a glossy, iridescent black body, often with a green-blue sheen, and famously long, broad, rounded 'paddle-shaped' tail feathers that can extend up to 30 cm, significantly outstretching their approximately 12-13 cm body length. A subtle pale yellow nuchal collar and a white patch visible on...
This species primarily inhabits open savannas, grasslands, cultivated areas, and clearings, often near human settlements, generally at low to moderate elevations.
The diet of the Togo Paradise Whydah consists almost exclusively of small grass seeds, which they forage for on the ground or by gleaning from seed heads.
The Togo Paradise Whydah is an obligate brood parasite, a defining trait of the *Vidua* genus, laying its eggs exclusively in the nests of the Orange-cheeked Waxbill (*Estrilda melpoda*). Breeding males establish territories and perform elaborate aerial courtship displays, showcasing their impres...
The Togo Paradise Whydah is endemic to West Africa, with a breeding and resident range extending from Sierra Leone and Guinea eastward through Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and into western Nigeria. Its distribution is closely tied to the presence of its primary host, the Orange-che...
Least Concern
- The male Togo Paradise Whydah's tail can be twice as long as its body during breeding season, growing up to 30 cm long for a body of just 12-13 cm! - This species is an obligate brood parasite, meaning it never builds its own nest, instead relying entirely on other bird species to raise its you...