Fawn-breasted Waxbill
NameFawn-breasted Waxbill
Common NameFawn-breasted Waxbill
Scientific NameEstrilda paludicola
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features a grey crown and nape, pale grey face, and a bright red bill. The upperparts are warm brown, while the underparts are fawn to pale buff, often with a reddish wash on the flanks. The rump and upper tail coverts are a distinctive bright red, and the tail is dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsit' calls, often given in flight or while foraging in flocks.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across central and eastern Africa, from Cameroon east through South Sudan, Uganda, and Kenya, extending south into Angola and Zambia.
Identifying FeaturesBright red conical bill, Grey head and face, Fawn-colored breast, Bright red rump and upper tail coverts
Description
The Fawn-breasted Waxbill is a small, plump finch characterized by its bright red, conical bill and grey head. Its upperparts are warm brown, contrasting with a fawn-colored breast and a striking red rump and upper tail coverts. These social birds are typically found foraging in small flocks in grassy habitats.
