Black-rumped Waxbill
NameBlack-rumped Waxbill
Common NameBlack-rumped Waxbill
Scientific NameEstrilda troglodytes
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsThis species has grey-brown upperparts and flanks, with paler greyish-white underparts often showing a pinkish wash on the belly. A prominent bright red mask extends from the lores through the eye, complemented by a reddish bill. The rump is black, and the tail is dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsit' calls, often given while in flight or foraging.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east, and extending south into parts of Uganda and Kenya.
Identifying FeaturesBright red mask around the eye, Red bill, Black rump, Small size (approx. 9-10 cm), Grey-brown plumage with paler underparts
Description
The Black-rumped Waxbill is a small, slender finch characterized by its distinctive bright red mask and bill. These social birds are typically found in open grasslands and savannas, where they forage for small seeds.
