The yellow-mantled widowbird, also known as the yellow-backed widow, is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Found widely across savanna and grassland mosaics from West into Central Africa. It favors tall, rank grasses near wetlands, floodplains, and marsh edges, but also uses drier savannas and fallow or cultivated fields. Breeding territories are typically in stands of tall grasses or sedges where nests can be anchored. Outside the breeding season it ranges more broadly and may join mixed-species flocks in open country.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the yellow-backed widow, the male develops a striking yellow mantle and elongated tail plumes during the breeding season. Males perform slow, fluttering display flights to attract females and often maintain small territories in tall grass. Like other weavers, males may construct several woven grass nests to entice mates. Outside the breeding season, both sexes form flocks and look much plainer.
Breeding males of race E. m. subsp. macrocercus have black rather than yellow mantle plumage
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; slow fluttering display flights with tail spread
Social Behavior
Highly polygynous during the breeding season; males defend small territories within tall grasses and perform aerial displays. Males weave multiple nests from grass to attract females, which then complete the lining. Outside breeding, they often form loose flocks and may mix with other seed-eating weavers.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are sharp chips and buzzes, with a dry, sizzling quality during displays. The song is a series of thin, wheezy notes and trills delivered from a perch or in flight. Vocalizations intensify around territories in the breeding season.
