Cinderella waxbill

Introduction: Cinderella waxbills (Estrilda thomensis) are tree-living birds, easily overlooked in a mopane and fringing riverine woodland habitat. Although occurring mainly singly or in pairs, small groups of up to 8 are not uncommon. Frequenting wells and shallow waterholes dug by mammals in dry, sandy riverbeds, is a feature of this species.

Distribution: Occurs along the Kunene River from Ruacana to Baynes Mountain and along the Ondoto River from near Epembe to Ehomba. Other isolated sighting west of Epupa Falls have been recorded.
Diet: Moves quickly through the tree canopy, at times hanging upside down from branches and twigs to extract seeds. Feeding at flowers for nectar is practised. Also forages in gardens in Ruacana and in and around lodges along the Kunene River.

Description: A pale grey bird with black lores extending as a thin streak to behind the eye. Grey-brown flight feathers with vary shades of red on the flanks and black on the lower belly.
Breeding: Females lay 3 or 4 eggs in a large grass ball, with a long entrance tunnel and false nest on top to distract predators. Incubation is for around 14 days.

Size: 11cm.

Weight: 8g.