During breeding season, the Southern Red Bishop puts on quite a show with its stunning transformation. This petite bird undergoes a remarkable change in its plumage, with male birds becoming particularly striking. They boast bold red and orange colors on their upper parts, while their wings and tail take on a brownish hue. The breast and legs turn black, while the upper breast and lower tail coverts become a deep shade of red or orange. To top off this dramatic look, the male’s head turns red and is accentuated by a black mask-like face. This incredible transformation is a beautiful blend of rich, velvety black and vibrant vermilion that is sure to captivate anyone who has the pleasure of observing it.
When compared, it can be observed that female and non-breeding males of this species are not very noticeable, as they have short tails and light-colored eyebrows. Their feathers are also quite fluffy, which can make it challenging to differentiate them from other types of Bishops.
The Southern Red Bishop bird is a frequent sight in the wetlands and grasslands of Africa that are situated below the equator. In contrast, the Northern Red Bishop takes its place above the equator. These birds tend to stay near water sources, amidst vegetation like grass, sedges, and crops such as sugar cane during their breeding season. However, during non-breeding times, they move towards drier habitats such as savannas and grasslands.
Initially an ordinary bird, it underwent a remarkable change and turned into a stunning creature, sporting a bright red cape, a trendy cap, and a chic black vest. Its look now mesmerizes anyone who lays their eyes on it, exuding an unparalleled allure and grace.
The Southern Red Bishop bird is a versatile eater that enjoys both seeds and insects. It has a diverse palate and can consume an array of different types of food.
The southern red bishop is a type of bird that practices polygamy, with the male having multiple female partners either at the same time or one after the other. However, it is worth noting that the male does not contribute to incubating or raising the chicks. Instead, he focuses on protecting his territory from other males. To attract females during breeding season, the male constructs a number of nests within his domain and showcases his work by engaging in a fierce fight called the bumblebee fight, where he puffs up his feathers. The nest itself takes an oval shape and is made out of grass, typically built above water. Once inside, the female will lay between two to four eggs.
