an endangered endemic of Mauritius. unlike the widespread introduced Madagascar fody, which you can see everywhere.
the male develops a bright red plumage on the head and neck during the breeding season which is in the Spring (form September to February).
the above information is form Jaques De Speville's "Birds ile Maurice, Rodrigues, ISBN 9789994938049
this shot was taken in the et ile aux Aigretts, which is a wildlife reserve works in saving tow other endangered birds, the Pink pigeon and the olive white-eye.