Rediscovering the Black-lored Waxbill: A Rare Glimpse into the Wild!

The Black-lored Waxbill (Estrilda nigriloris) is a small and elusive finch, distinguished by its unique facial markings and limited documented sightings. Its ecological role remains largely unexplored due to its rarity, but a recent observation by the biomonitoring team at Upemba National Park marks a significant step toward understanding this enigmatic species. This sighting on September 29, 2023 – the first since 1950, has yielded the first-ever photographs taken of the bird in the wild, a remarkable achievement in avian conservation. The sighting was brief, spanning only two days in the area, underscoring just how infrequent encounters with this bird are.

This species is set apart by its distinct features. The most striking is the black patch around its eyes, from which it derives its name—a key difference from the more common Waxbill, which sports a red stripe instead. A fine pinkish-white line runs above the lores, and its cheeks are grey rather than white. The bird’s plumage is a subtle gray-brown with a pinkish wash, complemented by a red bill that is shorter and stubbier compared to that of its more familiar relatives.

The Black-lored Waxbill is known to inhabit grassy plains interspersed with tall grasses and bushes. Its range is confined to the southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly around the Lualaba River and Lake Upemba. Given its elusive nature and limited recorded occurrences, understanding its precise ecological niche remains a challenge. However, like other small finches, it is believed to play a role in seed dispersal, assisting in the spread of plant species within its habitat. Additionally, as a small prey species, it contributes to the local food chain, serving as sustenance for various predators.

Its potential role as an indicator species could provide insight into the health of its habitat. However, because it is classified as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List, a full assessment of its ecological significance remains incomplete. The recent rediscovery at Upemba National Park presents an opportunity to conduct much-needed research into its behaviors, population status, and conservation needs. Given how little is known about the Black-lored Waxbill, every sighting offers a valuable piece of the puzzle, bringing us closer to safeguarding this rare and remarkable species.