Common Waxbill
Estrilda astrild
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Passeriformes · Estrildidae
About
The common waxbill, also known as the St Helena waxbill, is a small passerine bird belonging to the estrildid finch family. It is native to sub-Saharan Africa but has been introduced to many other regions of the world and now has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 10,000,000 km2. It is popular and easy to keep in captivity.
Fun Fact
Common Waxbills line their nests with a platform of feathers outside the main cup—thought to deter predators by looking like an occupied nest from below.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Native to sub-Saharan Africa but has been introduced to many other regions of the world and now has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 10,000,000 km2.
Diet
Diet consists mainly of grass and millet seeds but insects are also eaten on occasions, especially during the breeding season when more protein is needed.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance