Black-faced Waxbill
NameBlack-faced Waxbill
Common NameBlack-faced Waxbill
Scientific NameEstrilda erythronotos
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)12.5
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)8.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have a grey crown and nape, a prominent black mask covering the lores and ear-coverts, and brown upperparts. The flanks are finely barred, and the belly and undertail coverts are bright crimson. The tail is black, and the bill is pale greyish-white.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tsit-tsit' or 'swee-swee' calls, often given in flight. They also have a trilling song.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Southern Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, extending into parts of East Africa such as Kenya and Tanzania.
Identifying Featuresblack face mask, grey head, red belly, barred flanks, pale bill
Description
This small, striking finch is characterized by its distinctive black face mask, grey head, and vibrant red belly. It typically forages on the ground in dry scrubland and savanna, feeding primarily on seeds.
