Definition

Noun 1. A type of small African songbird: A whidah (also spelled whydah) is a bird belonging to the family Viduidae, found primarily in Africa. The males of many species are known for their exceptionally long tail feathers, especially during the breeding season. 2. A brood parasite: Whidahs are notable for laying their eggs in the nests of other bird species (particularly estrildid finches), which then raise the whidah chicks as their own.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The male paradise whidah displayed its spectacular tail feathers to attract a mate.
  • Ornithologists study how the whidah chick mimics the mouth markings of its host's chicks.

Advanced Usage

• "Whidah finch": Another common name for birds in the Viduidae family.
  • The pin-tailed whidah finch is a popular sight in the savannas.

Variants and Related Words

• Whydah: An alternate spelling of "whidah".
• Widowbird: A common name for several species within the same family, referring to their long, black tail feathers resembling a mourning veil.

Synonyms

• Widowbird (for certain species)
• Parasitic finch (descriptive term highlighting its breeding behavior)

Noun

1. mostly black African weaverbird