Flammenweber Euplectes hordeaceus

Breeding males are spectacular birds with a mix of black and orange-red plumage. Males’ wings are glossy black and unusually broad, conspicuous in flight. Females and non-breeding males are brown and streaky. Found in many open habitats, including woodland, cultivation, moist grassland, marshes, and forest clearings. The song is long and rattling, with some “radio static” notes mixed in. Males often give this song in a display flight. Breeding males identified by combination of orange-red crown and breast. Non-breeding males still easily recognized by their black wing. Female similar to other bishops, but larger.