Estrilda rufibarba
The Arabian Waxbill (*Estrilda rufibarba*) is a petite and charming finch, typically measuring 10-11 cm in length. Its most distinctive field mark is the prominent rufous "bar" or patch on its lores and supercilium, which sharply contrasts with its ashy-grey head. The species exhibits a brown mantle and wings, a vibrant rufous rump, and a short black tail. Its flanks are also rufous, adorned with fine white spots, while the belly is whitish. Sexes are morphologically similar, and seasonal plu...
Inhabits arid and semi-arid savannas, thornbush, acacia scrub, cultivated areas, gardens, and especially wadis, often near reliable water sources, up to elevations of 2,500 meters.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on small grass seeds gleaned from the ground and low plants, supplemented occasionally with small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season.
Arabian Waxbills are primarily diurnal, actively foraging on the ground and in low vegetation throughout the day. Outside the breeding season, they typically form small, cohesive flocks of 5-20 individuals, moving together in search of food and water, often roosting communally in dense bushes. Du...
The Arabian Waxbill is endemic to the southwestern Arabian Peninsula, with its primary distribution encompassing the mountainous regions and associated wadis of southwestern Saudi Arabia, particularly within the Asir province, and western Yemen. While historically abundant in parts of Yemen, its ...
Least Concern
- Endemic to the southwestern Arabian Peninsula, making it a regional specialty for birders interested in this unique biodiversity hotspot. - Its distinctive rufous "bar" on the lores is a key field mark, giving it a unique and charming appearance among the waxbill family. - Despite its small siz...