Nutmeg Mannikin (Lonchura punctulata), Willow Canyon, Santa Catalinas, Pima County

This escaped Nutmeg Mannikin was discovered and photographed by Moez Ali on 12 August 2009 at a cabin feeder in Willow Canyon in pine forest at 7000 feet. Interesting elevation and habitat for this exotic species usually known from the riparian and agricultural lowlands in AZ.

Widespread and common throughout much of southern Asia, the Nutmeg Mannikin is a popular cage bird and is often seen as an escape in North America. It is an established exotic in Hawaii but is not countable anywhere in the ABA area. Its status in North America is unclear. Some claims have been made that it is an established breeder in California and Florida, but these may not be accurate. eBird shows it regularly reported in coastal California, SE Florida, the Gulf Coast of Texas and the Puget Sound area in Washington.

It has many other common names such as the Ricebird, Scaly-breasted Munia, and Spotted Munia.

Unmistakable large bill, rich chestnut body and prominent white scaling below. The right leg also shows an aluminum band.

12 August 2009, photo by Moez Ali

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