Taveta Weaver - Ploceus castaneiceps

When news about a Taveta Weaver seen at the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary in Irvine, California, spread in the internet, I wasted no time going there. After all, this bird was not supposed to be in Southern California so most likely it was an escapee. It didn't take me long to spot it as it fed not that far from the sanctuary's parking lot. Sadly, just about a week later, no more sightings had been reported of this lovely African species.

Taveta Weavers are native to Kenya and Tanzania. Because of its gorgeous golden color it is popular among cage bird enthusiasts and zoo keepers. As is common among weavers, it builds an intricate hanging nest usually over small bodies of water. Its food consists mainly of seeds and grass.

Taveta Weaver - Ploceus castaneiceps
San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, Irvine, California
January 2, 2008

Canon 20D, 100-400 zoom lens set at 400mm, handheld
ISO-400, 1/320, f6.3