The Anambra waxbill is a species of estrildid finch found in wetter land of southern Nigeria and Benin. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 38,000 km2.
Region
West Africa (Lower Niger Basin and adjacent Benin)
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in wetter lowlands of southern Nigeria and neighboring Benin, especially along river floodplains, marsh edges, and swampy grasslands. It favors dense stands of reeds (e.g., Phragmites) and tall grasses interspersed with open water. Birds may also use artificial wetlands such as rice fields and borrow pits when emergent vegetation is present. The species avoids closed forest and very dry savanna, remaining tied to permanent or seasonal wetlands. Local abundance can fluctuate with flooding and vegetation cycles.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A localized estrildid finch of wet lowlands in southern Nigeria and adjacent Benin, the Anambra waxbill keeps close to reedbeds and flooded grasslands. It often travels in small, tight flocks and is more often heard than seen, giving thin, high-pitched calls from cover. It can be confused with other waxbills; habitat and subtle plumage details are helpful for separation. Its fortunes are closely tied to the management and preservation of riverine wetlands.
Temperament
social and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small flocks that keep close contact calls while moving through reedbeds. Likely monogamous, building domed grass nests low in dense vegetation. Nesting is timed with rainy seasons when seeds and insects are abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched tsit and tsee notes, often in quick series. The song is a soft, tinkling twitter delivered from a concealed perch within reeds.
