from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Whidah bird \Whid"ah bird`\, (Zool.)
Any one of several species of finchlike birds belonging to
the genus {Vidua}, native of Asia and Africa. In the breeding
season the male has very long, drooping tail feathers. Called
also {vida finch}, {whidah finch}, {whydah bird}, {whydah
finch}, {widow bird}, and {widow finch}.
[1913 Webster]
Note: Some of the species are often kept as cage birds,
especially {Vidua paradisea}, which is dark brownish
above, pale buff beneath, with a reddish collar around
the neck.
[1913 Webster]