Brunhilda charmosyna
The Black-cheeked Waxbill, *Brunhilda charmosyna*, is a diminutive yet striking estrildid finch native to the dry savannas and bushlands of East Africa. Measuring about 10 cm (4 inches) in length, it is characterized by its soft brownish-grey upperparts contrasting with whitish underparts, and distinct pinkish-buff flanks finely barred with brown. Its most prominent field mark, giving the species its name, is a bold black patch covering the lores and cheeks, beautifully complemented by a brig...
This species favors arid and semi-arid thornbush, acacia scrub, dry savannas, and grassy bushland, often found near water sources or cultivation, typically at elevations below 2,000 meters.
Primarily granivorous, their diet consists mainly of small grass seeds, which they glean directly from seedheads or pick from the ground; they also supplement with small insects, particularly during the breeding season.
Black-cheeked Waxbills are predominantly diurnal, spending much of their day foraging on the ground or in low vegetation, often in a restless, animated manner. Outside the breeding season, they form social flocks, sometimes numbering in the dozens, and frequently associate with other small graniv...
The Black-cheeked Waxbill is endemic to East Africa, possessing a somewhat disjunct distribution across the dry and semi-arid regions. Its primary range extends from eastern Sudan, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, southward through Uganda and Kenya, reaching into northern and central Tanzania, and also...
Least Concern
- The Black-cheeked Waxbill's species name, *charmosyna*, is derived from Greek, meaning "delightful" or "charming," perfectly reflecting its subtle beauty. - Despite their delicate appearance, these waxbills are highly social, often forming flocks of dozens and even associating with other finch ...