Image via Macaulay Library
Common Waxbill
- Scientific name
- Estrilda astrild
- Family
- Estrildidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Grassland
- Wing shape
- Rounded
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The common waxbill, Estrilda astrild, originates from sub-Saharan Africa, where it has evolved as a highly adaptable species thriving in grasslands and savanna environments. While not an 'item' in the sense of manufactured goods, the species became a staple of the global exotic bird trade during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their popularity as aviary subjects grew primarily due to their social nature and the striking crimson markings that contrast with their otherwise modest brown plumage.
The classification of the species was established early in the history of systematic ornithology, with the genus name Estrilda reflecting the bird's distinctive, subtle beauty. Naturalists and illustrators of the period frequently documented the species to highlight its characteristic rounded wings and notched tail, features that are essential to its agile flight patterns. The bird is widely considered a success story of natural adaptation, having established self-sustaining populations in many regions outside its native range due to historical escapes from captivity.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Common Waxbill
Common Waxbill is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Common Waxbill on collecto.rs?
Common Waxbill doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Common Waxbill?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Common Waxbill catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Common Waxbill is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
