Exploring Pigeon Valley: Red-backed Mannikins

THESE little seed-eating birds recently returned to the area after their annual vacation; for some reason they seem to leave in December after breeding and return in May.

In spring they build a grassy nest in a bush or tree, the entrance hidden by grass stalks.

Like other seed-eaters in and around Pigeon Valley, their numbers seems to be stable or increasing.

ALSO READ: Exploring Pigeon Valley: The Natal Forest Loquat

They don’t limit themselves to seeds and, when the winged alates (flying ants) emerge in spring, you will see them hawking enthusiastically, despite having a bill that seems not at all designed for the purpose.

ALSO READ: Exploring Pigeon Valley: The Mantids

The males look particularly good with their brick-red backs, white and black fronts and steel-blue bills, while the females are more subdued in colour.

They behave in ways very similar to those of their well-known relatives, the Bronze Mannikins They are often found with their cousins or other seed-eaters, and at times in winter I have had about 20 birds in my patio bird bath, both Bronze and Red-backed.

ALSO READ: Exploring Pigeon Valley: Large-spotted Genet

Crispin Hemson chairs the Friends of Pigeon Valley, a group that undertakes clearing of alien plants, keeps records of bird and mammal sightings and alerts management to any problems.

The Friends have a monthly walk at 7.30am on the second Saturday of each month.

Email: friendsofpigeonvalley1@gmail.com.

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