Common waxbill

The Common Waxbill, also known as the St. Helena Waxbill, is a charming avian species belonging to the estrildid finch family. Originally native to sub-Saharan Africa, these birds have spread their wings to various parts of the globe. Petite in size, they measure just 4 to 5 inches in length and are easily recognizable by their red bills, grey-brown plumage, and red markings on their bellies. There are several subspecies, each exhibiting slight variations in appearance.

One of the delightful attributes of Common Waxbills is their wide array of calls, including a distinctive high-pitched flight call. They prefer open areas with tall grass and vegetation located near water. You can find them in East, Central, and Southern Africa, and they have also established populations in warm climates around the world where grass seeds are abundant. They have even been introduced to islands near Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Pacific.

When it comes to raising their young, Common Waxbills are diligent. They construct nests from grass stems, typically in low, dense vegetation. They lay white eggs, and both parents share the responsibilities of incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks. Their diet primarily consists of grass seeds, but they also consume insects, especially during the breeding season when they require additional protein.

These birds are popular pets and are relatively easy to keep in captivity, often breeding successfully in aviaries. In the wild, they forage in flocks, clinging to grass stems to pick seeds from flower heads. Thanks to their adaptability, you can find Common Waxbills in a variety of ecosystems worldwide, making them a favorite among birdwatchers.