Clayton and Linsey,
You do have the correct species. As to why they are no longer displayed on
eBird perhaps John Berner will answer in time. In checking it appears that most
of the exotics are missing except those that are thought to reproduce annually
in the area.
I find this disturbing since it makes it difficult to learn about the release
rate or release sequence for these birds if reports are not easily seen. The
Asian community has a tradition of animal release. Since there is a large Asian
community in SW Houston we find most of the exotic finches in this area. As to
exactly when they are released or if it corresponds with religious events or is
personally based I have yet to learn. Finches are sometimes released at
weddings. Guest are given a small box with a finch inside and at the
appropriate time the birds are released. A large wedding may release 100 birds
at one moment. Last year Mary Ann Weber of the Houston Audubon Society found 20
Orange-cheeked Waxbills and many individuals of two species of Munia at Bishop
Fierenza Park on Eldridge Road on Feb 24. I suggest others look for the species
there about that date and we might learn if that was a onetime event or an
annual release date. The more inexpensive finches are the ones used in this
practice but interestingly the inexpensive Society Finches are seldom if ever
encountered. This species is a domestic one with poor survival skills.
Apparently if they are part of the release they soon fall prey to predators.
The Orange-cheeked Waxbill seems linked to areas with more tall grass wetlands.
Fred Collins, Director
Kleb Woods Nature Center
20303 Draper Road,Tomball TX 77377
281-357-5324
Harris County Precinct 3
Steve Radack Commissioner
www.pct3.com
-----Original Message-----
From: texbirds-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:texbirds-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On ;
Behalf Of Clayton Leopold
Sent: Monday, January 30, 2017 7:46 AM
To: texbirds@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [texbirds] Orange-cheeked waxbill
Does anyone know why the Houston Orange-cheeked Waxbill sightings were taken
off e-bird? Was I mistaken thinking that they were even on there?
Maybe I have the wrong species?
I was looking to go see a group today and I can't find a single sighting
anymore of their current locations. I do know where a few flocks used to be but
it has been a while.
--
Clayton & Linsey Leopold
Texas City
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