The black-faced waxbill is a common species of estrildid finch found in southern Africa. It is found in Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The IUCN has classified the species as being of least concern.
Region
Southern and Eastern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from Namibia and Angola across Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, with disjunct populations extending into Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. Prefers dry acacia and mopane savanna, thornscrub, and open woodland, often near grass seed sources. Frequently uses bushy drainage lines, dry riverbeds, and the edges of rural settlements. It tolerates semi-arid conditions but stays close to cover and reliable water. Nests are placed in dense shrubs or thorn trees to deter predators.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The black-faced waxbill is a small estrildid finch of southern and eastern Africa, notable for its striking black facial mask and reddish rump. It is largely sedentary, forming small flocks outside the breeding season and often visiting waterholes in arid savanna. Pairs build neat, oval grass nests low in thorny shrubs, and breeding commonly follows seasonal rains. Though widespread and common, it remains sensitive to prolonged drought and habitat degradation.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, forming loose flocks outside the breeding season. Monogamous pairs build oval grass nests low in thorny shrubs and line them with fine fibers. Breeding is often timed to follow rains when seed and insects are abundant. They roost communally in dense cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, thin twittering with high-pitched trills and sibilant notes. Males give a more sustained, delicate song during courtship, while contact calls are brief tsit-tsit notes.
