Pin-Tailed Whydah: description, habitat, behaviour, diet, distribution
Pin-Tailed Whydah: The Pintail Whydah (Vidua macroura), also known as the Pin-tailed Whydah, is a small, striking bird native to Africa, known for its long tail during the breeding season and parasitic breeding behavior.
1. Pin-Tailed Whydah Description
- Size: The male pintail whydah is about 13 cm (5 in) long, but during the breeding season, its long, graceful tail feathers extend to nearly 30 cm (12 in). Females are smaller, around 12 cm (4.7 in), with shorter tails.
- Appearance: Males in breeding plumage are black and white, with a long tail, a bright red bill, and bold black and white patterns on the body. Outside the breeding season, males and females have a brownish, streaked appearance similar to many small finches, but they retain the bright red bill.
- Tail: Males’ tail feathers are highly distinct and used for attracting females during courtship.
2. Habitat
- Pintail Whydahs prefer grasslands, savannas, agricultural lands, and open woodland areas. They are often seen in areas near human settlements, farmlands, and even gardens, especially where there is access to grass seeds and open space for display flights.
- They can also thrive in disturbed environments, making them adaptable to various habitats as long as there is sufficient food and water.
3. Behavior
- Breeding Behavior: The Pintail Whydah is a brood parasite, which means that the female does not raise her own young. Instead, she lays her eggs in the nests of other small seed-eating birds, particularly waxbills. The host bird unknowingly incubates the whydah’s eggs and raises the chicks.
- Courtship: Male whydahs perform elaborate displays during the breeding season, showing off their long tails in flight while calling and singing to attract females. The males often have territories and defend them from other males.
- Social Behavior: Outside of breeding, these birds are typically found in flocks, feeding on seeds and foraging.
4. Pin-Tailed Whydah Diet
- The Pintail Whydah primarily eats grass seeds and other small grains. They are often seen foraging on the ground in flocks.
- They may occasionally supplement their diet with small insects, especially during the breeding season when more protein is required.
- In areas with human activity, they might feed on food scraps or bird seed in gardens.
5. Distribution
- Pintail Whydahs are native to sub-Saharan Africa and are found across a wide range of countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, and Tanzania, among others.
- They have been introduced to several places outside their native range, including the Caribbean and parts of the United States (notably California), where they have established small populations.
Summary of Characteristics:
- Common name: Pintail Whydah
- Scientific name: Vidua macroura
- Size: 12-13 cm, with males growing longer tail feathers (up to 30 cm) during breeding.
- Diet: Primarily seeds and occasionally insects.
- Distribution: Native to sub-Saharan Africa but introduced to other regions.
- Breeding: Brood parasitic, laying eggs in the nests of other small birds.
Their adaptability, interesting breeding habits, and eye-catching appearance make them a fascinating species in the world of birds.
For more wild birds, please have a look at our wild bird category.
