Long-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes progne)

Long-tailed Widowbird ( Euplectes progne)

We are coming to the end of the 'breeding season' here in South Africa for many animals and as a consequence many male birds will loose their magnificent 'breeding colour's. Not only will this South African resident bird the Long-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes progne)  loose his contrasting black, red and white markings (feathers) and return to quite a drab looking individual but he will also loose his very impressive 500mm (18in) tail feathers (12no) as well. I captured this male Long-tailed Widowbird  just a few weeks ago displaying his 'magnificent' long tail as you can see. 

Male Long-tailed Widowbird (Euplectes progne) displaying his 500mm (18in) long tail