Shaft-tailed Whydah

Vidua regia

The Shaft-tailed Whydah is a small, sexually dimorphic bird native to sub-Saharan Africa. The male is known for its striking black plumage with long tail feathers, while the female has a more subdued brown and buff coloration. During the breeding season, the male displays elaborate courtship behavior, including a distinctive aerial display. This species is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species. The Shaft-tailed Whydah is often found in open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas, where it forages for seeds and insects. Despite its widespread distribution, the conservation status of this species is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat: Open grasslands, savannas, agricultural areas