ML201851931 IBC 1487715

Iruzkina

Breeding male Long-tailed Paradise-whydah feeding on grass seeds. The male Long-tailed Paradise-whydah (Vidua paradisaea) is one of Africa’s most spectacular birds with its long black tail, black head, russet throat and yellowish underparts. This plumage only develops in the breeding season – the male loses its long tail and bright colours in eclipse and develops a black and white-streaked head and greyish-brown streaked upper parts. Breeding males are very conspicuous and perch prominently. Long-tailed Paradise Whydahs are brood parasites, mostly laying their eggs in the nests of the Green-winged Pytilia or Melba Finch (Pytilia melba). Elevation: 287 m. Date added to IBC: April 18, 2018.