Black Bishop

Identification

The black bishop is a large weaver at 14 to 16 cm in length, with a distinctive appearance that varies markedly between seasons and sexes. Breeding males are unmistakable: predominantly black on the wings, tail, chest, cheeks and forehead, with striking orange or orange-red on the neck, back of the head, and breast band. The upper back is yellow or orange-yellow depending on subspecies, while the conical black bill and brown tarsus are characteristic of the weaver family. Under tail-coverts are pale buff with black streaks.

Females and non-breeding males are considerably duller and more challenging to identify. Females are dark overall with boldly spotted under tail-coverts, dark spots on a buff breast, and black wing linings. Non-breeding males retain black on the back, wings and rump but show yellowish supercilia and chin, with tawny buff sides to the face and breast. Juveniles resemble females but have smaller breast spots. The species is vocal, with calls comprising various subdued twittering sounds and harsher calls including "see-zee see-zee" and "hishaah" phrases.

Range & Habitat

The black bishop is native to sub-Saharan Africa, with three recognized subspecies distributed across distinct regions. The northern black bishop (ansorgei) inhabits Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Kenya, with a stronghold around the Lake Victoria basin and Kakamega. The nominate Angola black bishop (gierowii) is found in Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, while the southern black bishop (friederichseni) inhabits Kenya and Tanzania, particularly around Babati and sporadically to Lake Manyara and Serengeti National Park.

Across its range, the species favors grasslands, shrublands, and wetlands, making it a bird of open and semi-open habitats rather than dense forest.

Behaviour & Diet

The black bishop is not a highly gregarious species, though it may occasionally be found in small flocks. During the breeding season, males are territorial and likely polygynous, with each male defending his territory against rivals. The species is not particularly social, especially during the nesting period when males are focused on territorial defense.

Best Time & Places to See It

The best opportunities to see black bishops come during the breeding season when males are most conspicuous in their brilliant plumage, actively defending territories. The Lake Victoria basin and Kakamega in Kenya are excellent locations for the northern subspecies, while Serengeti National Park and the area around Lake Manyara in Tanzania offer chances to encounter the southern subspecies. Wetlands and grassland habitats should be prioritized when searching for this species.

Photography Tips

Photographing breeding males is rewarding due to their vibrant orange and black coloration, which contrasts sharply against grassland and wetland backdrops. Males are most visible and active during breeding season when defending territories. Early morning visits to grassland and wetland habitats will maximize sighting chances. Be aware that females and non-breeding males are considerably duller and more cryptic; patience and careful observation of movement in grassland and shrubland edges will be necessary to locate them.