Description
Lavender Waxbill (Estrilda caerulescens)
Rare & Captive-Bred for Discerning Aviary Keepers
Current Status
Availability:
- Breeding pairs: 2 remaining
- Show-quality specimens: By special order
Exceptional Qualities
Visual Appeal:
- Soft lavender-grey plumage
- Ruby-red eye stripe (males more vivid)
- Delicate black tail barring
Behavioral Traits:
- Exceptionally peaceful disposition
- Constant “sewing machine” feeding motions
- Minimal vocalization (gentle peeps)
Included With Purchase:
- Genetic lineage documentation
- Custom climate adaptation guide
- Lifetime breeder support
Habitat Specifications
Ideal Enclosure:
- Planted aviary preferred
- 30% flying space / 70% dense foliage
- Multiple micro-climate zones
Essential Features:
- Finely-meshed screening (1/4″)
- Elevated nesting sites
- Multiple dust bath areas
Compatibility Chart:
✓ Other Estrildids
✓ Emerald starlings
✗ Aggressive species
Breeding Protocol
Optimal Conditions:
- Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
- Humidity: 50-60%
- Photoperiod: 14h light
Reproductive Data:
- Sexual maturity: 9 months
- Clutch size: 3-5 eggs
- Incubation: 13 days
- Fledge age: 19 days
Proven Technique:
“Use coconut fiber tubes for highest nest acceptance rates.”
Specialized Nutrition
Daily Requirements:
- 40% panicum millet
- 30% live food blend (aphids, fruit flies)
- 20% sprouted seeds
- 10% greens (chickweed, parsley)
Supplement Schedule:
- Calcium: 3x weekly
- Probiotics: 2x weekly
- Insect protein: Daily during molt
Acquisition Timeline
- Application – Complete husbandry questionnaire
- Selection – Virtual bird viewing available
- Transport – Climate-controlled shipping
Payment Options:
- 50% deposit, balance pre-shipment
- Breeder financing available
