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The Pin-tailed Whydah,Vidua macroura, is a small resident songbird that occurs in most of Africa south of the Sahara Desert. It is a delightful song bird and the male’s elaborate courtship flight is impressive. The female is gorgeous as well with beautiful brown/black plummage. “Whydah” is the name of a town in Nigeria where these birds are common. Pintail Whydahs are also called “Widow Birds” due to the long tail the male has during the breeding season. During this time It is twice the length of his body and often black. They are often known as the Pintail Widowbird, King’s Whydah, King of Six, Bird of Six, Pied Widowbird.
The Pin-tailed Whydah (Vidua macroura) is a small songbird native to much of sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its beautiful song and impressive courtship display.
During the breeding season, the male develops long ornamental tail feathers. His tail can become more than twice the length of his body. This striking feature has earned the species names such as Pintail Whydah, Widow Bird, King’s Whydah, and King of Six.
At Aviora Haven, the Pin-tailed Whydah is a fascinating choice for bird enthusiasts who enjoy active and unusual finch species.
The Pin-tailed Whydah has a compact body and attractive brown, black, and white plumage. Females also have beautiful coloration, although they lack the male’s spectacular breeding tail.
During the breeding season, the male develops an elongated black tail. These feathers can add approximately 20 cm to his overall length.
Outside the breeding season, the male’s long tail feathers are lost. At this time, males and females can look very similar.
Pin-tailed Whydahs are found across tropical Africa. Their range extends from Senegal and Sudan southward to South Africa.
They commonly inhabit savannas, grasslands, and open areas where suitable food and nesting hosts are available.
Pin-tailed Whydahs are active and energetic birds. They need enough room to fly and explore.
These birds are generally enjoyed for their natural behavior rather than for handling or training. They can also be assertive and quarrelsome, especially around other birds.
For this reason, care should be taken when choosing their aviary companions. Avoid housing them with small or timid finches. Keeping one male with several females can also help reduce competition.
Pin-tailed Whydahs are brood parasites. This means they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species. The foster parents then incubate the eggs and raise the young.
The species has a specialized relationship with waxbills. In particular, Pin-tailed Whydahs are associated with the Common Waxbill, also known as the St. Helena Waxbill.
Male Whydahs learn the songs of their foster species. This helps them attract mates and successfully reproduce.
Because successful breeding requires suitable foster birds, breeding Pin-tailed Whydahs in captivity can be challenging. They are best suited to experienced aviculturists who understand their specialized breeding needs.
Pin-tailed Whydahs can be difficult to sex visually, especially outside the breeding season. DNA testing can be used when a specific gender is required.
If a gender option is not available for a particular bird, DNA testing may be available for an additional fee. Testing may also add several weeks to the estimated delivery time.
With proper care, Pin-tailed Whydahs can live for many years. They are reported to have a lifespan of up to 16 years.
A varied diet can help support the health and activity of these birds. Suitable foods include:
Fresh foods should be offered appropriately and replaced regularly to maintain freshness.
The Pin-tailed Whydah is a unique and fascinating bird. Its active behavior, beautiful song, and spectacular breeding plumage make it an interesting addition to an appropriate aviary.
If you are looking for an unusual African songbird, the Pin-tailed Whydah from Aviora Haven can be an exciting choice for an experienced bird enthusiast.
| Sex | Male, Female, Pair |
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