The Orange-Breasted Waxbill

(Amandava subflava)

Suitability: These little guys are the smallest finch available to us here in Australia. They are members of the Waxbill family which means that livefood as well as seeds are recommended in order for them to be fully productive. They love seed mixes with small seeds such as those in our Taste of Africa line which were developed for the Waxbill family.
Can be kept as pairs and colonies. Tend to breed more males than females but this imbalance appears not to bother the dynamics of the colony but suggest spares be removed.

Breeding: Will breed without livefood but best results achieved with it – maggots, mealworms and termites all equally eaten.

Will build their own nest with swamp grass, white and Emu feathers. Love to utilize old weaver nests and often build in small wicker baskets.

Recommended: Equally for the novice wanting to move up into the waxbill family or just wishing to introduce a bit of colour into the aviary. Their size and colour and endearing nature also makes them popular with the experienced breeder. Their small size does not mean they will be picked on by larger finches which make them ideal for most mixed collections.

Mutations: The only ones we are aware of are the odd pied birds that appear from time to time but these are infrequently available. Often this pied is as a sign of old age! Birds with white flights and tails are often seen but this is usually a dietary deficiency and the birds moult this colour out.
Permits: None required in NSW.