Orange Bishop

Orange Bishop (male in breeding plumage)

© Joseph Kennedy. Photo taken at Arthur Storey Park.

Orange Bishop    
Euplectes franciscanus

Family: (Ploceidae) Weavers

Preferred Habitat: Fields close to water

Seasonal Occurrence: Permanent resident, restricted to a very few locations.

Sighting Reports Request: Daniel Brooks, Ph.D. of the Houston Museum of Natural Science is conducting a study of exotic species in Texas: Egyptian Goose, Mute Swan, Monk Parakeet, Scaly-breasted Munia, Orange Bishop, Red-vented Bulbul. If you see any of the species mentioned above, please fill out a report form. (See link above.)

Notes: The Orange Bishop is an exotic species, native to Africa. A breeding population has been established in the vicinity of Arthur Storey Park where they may be viewed regularly. The male in breeding plumage is a striking orange-red with black cap. The plumage of females, immatures, and non-breeding males resembles that of the Grasshopper Sparrow. However the larger size and heavier bill separate them from our native sparrows.  Fred Collins, Chair of the Citizen Science Committee, would appreciate receiving reports of sightings of this species if found in a different area. Please give as exact a location as is possible as well as the number of individuals and the date observed.
- Susan Billetdeaux

Orange Bishop (female)

© Joseph Kennedy. Photo taken at Arthur Storey Park.