Attract Nutmeg Mannikins to your feeder

A male Nutmeg Mannikin is part of a large Orange County flock.  Photo by J.J. Meyer

       Flocks of Nutmeg Mannikins, which are native to southern Asia, have become established in Orange County in recent years.   Also known as scaly-breasted munia, or spice finches, adult Nutmeg Mannikins are small chestnut or reddish brown finches with a dark head, thick bill and scaly patterned chest, while juveniles are tan with a slate gray bill.  These birds are rapidly spreading in the greater Los Angeles region and north to Santa Barbara. 
      These highly gregarious finches colonize in large flocks.  Attract them a mix of millet and sunflower seeds. 
      Happy birding!
      J.J.