Zwarte vuurwever Euplectes gierowii

A large bishop in which breeding males are scarlet and black, and females and non-breeding males are brown and streaky. There is geographic variation in the amount of red on the back of males, although the rump is always black. Found in lush grassland, cultivated areas, and savanna. Breeding male similar to Black-winged Bishop, but separated by larger size, black rump, and black crown. Females and non-breeding males can be confused with a variety of other bishops and widowbirds, but can be tentatively identified by their very dark overall coloration, heavily streaked back and breast, and large size. The song is a series of dry buzzy notes.