The fan-tailed widowbird, also known as the red-shouldered widowbird, is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae, which is native to grassy and swampy areas of the tropical and subtropical Afrotropics.
Region
Eastern and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in the Afrotropics from eastern to southern Africa, favoring damp to seasonally flooded grasslands, marsh edges, and swamps. It frequents tall sedges and grasses along rivers, floodplains, and wet meadows. During the non-breeding season it may disperse into drier grasslands and agricultural fringes. Breeding is often timed with rains when grass seeds and insects are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the red-shouldered widowbird, the male develops striking black plumage with vivid red shoulder patches and a broad, fan-like tail during the breeding season. Outside breeding, males resemble the streaky brown females, offering excellent camouflage in grasslands. Males perform fluttering display flights over tall grasses, fanning the tail to attract females. They are members of the weaver family (Ploceidae) and often nest in colonies or loose groups.
Male E. a. phoeniceus in eclipse plumage
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with buoyant display flights
Social Behavior
Males establish territories in tall grass and perform aerial displays while fanning the tail to attract females. They are often polygynous and may nest in loose colonies where males defend small display arenas. Nests are woven low in grasses or sedges and lined with softer material. Outside the breeding season, birds form flocks and roam in search of seeding grasses.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song consists of buzzy twitters and chattering notes delivered from exposed perches or during display flights. Calls include thin tseep notes and soft clucks used to keep contact within flocks.
