Glaucestrilda thomensis
The exquisite Cinderella Waxbill (Glaucestrilda thomensis) is a diminutive passerine bird, barely measuring 10-11 cm in length and weighing approximately 7-9 grams. Its plumage is a soft, understated blue-grey across its upperparts, gradually lightening to a pale grey or whitish wash on the underparts, offering a truly 'cinderella' elegance. A distinctive crimson mask, encompassing the lores and extending around the eye, provides a striking contrast, complemented by a bi-colored bill featurin...
This species exclusively inhabits dry, rocky scrubland, arid savanna, and thornbush country, particularly favoring areas with sparse grass cover, scattered trees, and rocky outcrops, often in close proximity to water sources. It is typically found at lower to mid-elevations, generally below 1,000...
Primarily granivorous, the Cinderella Waxbill feeds almost exclusively on small grass seeds, which it gleans from the ground; it also supplements its diet with small insects like termites and ants, especially during the breeding season.
Cinderella Waxbills are diurnal birds, actively foraging during the day and typically roosting communally in dense, thorny bushes or trees at night for protection. Their foraging strategy primarily involves gleaning small grass seeds from the ground, often in small, cohesive flocks of up to 10-20...
The Cinderella Waxbill is an extraordinary example of a highly localized endemic species, with its entire known range confined to a small region of western Angola. Specifically, it is found in the rocky, semi-arid landscapes of Benguela Province, extending southwards into parts of Namibe Province...
Least Concern
- The "Cinderella" name likely refers to its beautiful, yet subtle, blue-grey plumage, reminiscent of a fairytale and its status as a somewhat overlooked gem among African birds. - It is one of the most range-restricted birds in Africa, found only in a small, specific area of western Angola. - De...