Nutmeg Mannikins in Texas

Here are some of the family of Nutmeg Mannikins that live in my neighborhood near Houston, TX. They are very small but fine looking birds. These came into my feeder today.

Chris

They are such beautiful little birds. You are very lucky!

Aren't they just the cutest thing.
How wonderful that we can see birds here that we will never otherwise see.
Thanks for sharing.

They are sweet. Nice shot Chris! What is their personality like and how do they act around other small birds at the feeder?

They pretty much act like any other of the smaller birds and they mingle with sparrows and dove. I have yet to catch a good shot of one in flight but I will keep trying.

Your birds are so cute and colorful. I don't recall ever seeing a photo of them.

The Nutmeg Mannikin (Lonchura punctulata) is native to SE Asia, from India to the Philippines. Nutmeg Mannikin are usually found in small flocks on open grassy areas, of lawns and parks.The Nutmeg Mannikin is a tiny, dark brown, Estrildid Finch with a black bill, some times found in the caged bird trade. Mannikin in Texas would be escaped or released caged birds. They were introduced to Hawaii in 1865, are now common there.

Beautiful little birds and a rare sighting. Sibley's only mentions small populations in CA and FL. You should submit a sighting on eBird so the Texas population will be on record.