The southern red bishop or red bishop is a small passerine bird belonging to the bishop and widowbird genus Euplectes in the weaver family, the Ploceidae. It is common in wetlands and grassland in Africa south of the Equator. North of the Equator, it is replaced by the northern red bishop or orange bishop which was formerly regarded as a subspecies of this species.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa south of the Equator
Typical Environment
Common in wetlands, floodplains, marsh edges, and adjacent grasslands. Frequently uses reedbeds, bulrush stands, and agricultural fields such as rice and sugarcane. Also occurs in savanna grasslands near water and in moist ditches and pans. Readily adapts to disturbed habitats where tall grasses and seeds are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Breeding males turn a brilliant scarlet-red with a black face and belly, then molt back to a streaky brown non-breeding plumage that resembles the female. Males weave several oval nests in reeds or tall grasses and perform conspicuous puffed-up display flights to attract females. The species forms loose colonies in wetlands and often shifts locally with rainfall and seeding grasses.
Male weaving a nest in Pretoria, South Africa
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding display flights
Social Behavior
Often nests in loose colonies in reedbeds or tall grasses. Males are polygynous and construct multiple nests, enticing females with song and display. Nests are woven ovals suspended in vegetation, and both adults increase insect feeding during chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, sizzling trills and chitters delivered from perches or during buoyant display flights. Calls include sharp tseep notes and dry chattering in flocks.
