Common Waxbill
NameCommon Waxbill
Common NameCommon Waxbill
Scientific NameEstrilda astrild
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)12
Weight (g)9.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are greyish-brown with fine dark barring, while the underparts are pale pinkish-buff, often with a reddish wash on the belly and fine dark barring on the flanks. A prominent crimson mask extends from the bright red conical bill to behind the eye. The tail is long and dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched 'peep' or 'tseep' call, often given in flight or while foraging, and a soft trilling song.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to sub-Saharan Africa, the Common Waxbill has been widely introduced and established in many other parts of the world, including southern Europe, South America, and various oceanic islands.
Identifying Featuresred mask, red conical bill, finely barred grey-brown upperparts, pinkish belly, long dark tail
Description
The Common Waxbill is a small, slender finch characterized by its distinctive red mask and bill. These social birds typically forage in small to large flocks, feeding primarily on grass seeds, and exhibit an undulating flight pattern.
