Common Waxbill look-alikes
Estrilda astrild
Spotted a bird? Identify it instantly with the Birdby app
Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Common Waxbill. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Orange-cheeked Waxbill
Estrilda melpoda
Key differences
The Orange-cheeked Waxbill has distinct orange patches on its cheeks and lacks the red belly patch of the Common Waxbill. Its bill is also red, but the overall plumage is less barred.
Fawn-breasted Waxbill
Estrilda paludicola
Key differences
The Fawn-breasted Waxbill has a paler, fawn-colored breast and lacks the prominent red belly patch. It also has a red bill and a red stripe through the eye, but the barring on the flanks is less distinct than in the Common Waxbill.
Black-rumped Waxbill
Estrilda troglodytes
Key differences
The Black-rumped Waxbill is smaller and has a black rump (as its name suggests), contrasting with the reddish-brown rump of the Common Waxbill. It also has a red stripe through the eye but lacks the red belly patch.
Explore the Common Waxbill
Identify birds anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo & sound identification, full species database, and your personal life list.