It looks like an interesting bunting but do you have any photos from the rear view showing the back, wings, tail or head? Author: tgraham Time: 14/11/2006 07:38
Thomas
I agree with Geoff it looks like a large Bunting.
Can you tell me exactley where you saw it at TBT ie which pond so I can have a look for it
Thanks
Graham Author: gary Time: 14/11/2006 09:06
Though I'm not very sure about the bird, I think it's a Baya Weaver.
The very dark flight feather may help identification.
Gary Author: lpaul Time: 14/11/2006 09:49
Looks like a juvenile Oriental Greenfinch to me. But rather messy so a likely escape. Author: cthomas Time: 14/11/2006 21:42
Thanks for all reply!
Here is another photo that may help ID.
different angle of same bird
Tsim Bei Tsui
11/11/2006
Author: lmichael Time: 15/11/2006 08:39
I can't see the first photograph but the ones which have now been posted look like a Black-headed Bunting - note yellow/buff undertail coverts and streaking on the crown. The condition of the bird is a bit of a worry though - photos which showed the condition of the tail and primary tips would be useful. Author: kmike Time: 15/11/2006 09:31 Subject: Black-headed Bunting
Hi Thomas
You bird is a Black-headed Bunting - a very good record - Congratulations!
I saw one at Ng Tung Chai for a few minutes a couple of weeks ago. It looks a little different to your bird as mine did not have the brighter yellow feathers on the side of the breast.
The features to identify this bird are:
large dark eye, very fine black streaks on the head and pale pointed bill.
This combination rules out all the pipits and larks, which have different-shaped bills, heavier streaking and a clear supercilium.
You also have to eliminate Common Rosefinch and Oriental Greenfinch - but neither of these is quite the same colour, Common Rosefinch has shorter bill and Oriental Greenfinch has a completely different wing pattern, with a strong yellow bar - it also shows yellow at the base of the tail.
Baya Weaver is more heavily streaked on the back.
I do not know how to judge if the bird is an escape, but Ai wonder if the bright yelow feathers on the belly are the first signs of this bird moulting to adult male plumage? I am interested to hear the views of other with more experience of passerine moult.
Cheers
Mike K
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