The red-collared widowbird is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. Red-collared widowbirds are found in grasslands and bush clearings in western and southern Africa. They are known for their long tails and brilliant red badges, both of which act as sexual ornaments. They are often associated with other widowbird and bishop species. They are polygynous, where males acquisition of territory is an important determinant in their access to mates. Red-collared widowbirds have a wide range and there is little concern in terms of conservation status.
Region
Eastern and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in moist to mesic grasslands, edges of cultivation, and bushy clearings, often near wetlands or seasonal drainages. Prefers tall grass swards for nesting, with scattered shrubs or reedbeds for song perches. Frequently utilizes agricultural landscapes such as fallow fields and pasture with residual grass structure. Outside breeding, it ranges more widely in open country and joins mixed-species flocks. Local movements often track rainfall and grass seed availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Males develop a striking scarlet collar and elongated tail during the breeding season, both functioning as sexual ornaments under female choice. They are strongly polygynous: a single male defends a territory that hosts multiple nesting females. Outside the breeding season, males molt into a cryptic brown plumage similar to females. They often associate with other widowbirds and bishops in mixed foraging flocks.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with looping display flights
Social Behavior
During breeding, males hold discrete territories and court multiple females within them. Females build the nest, a woven grass structure low in tall grasses, and perform most incubation and chick-rearing. Outside the breeding season, birds form loose flocks and often mix with other Euplectes species while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
The display song is a series of dry buzzes, trills, and scratchy notes delivered from exposed perches or during fluttering display flights. Calls include sharp chips and nasal twangs used for contact within flocks. Vocalizations are not elaborate but are persistent in the breeding season.
