I think one of the southeast Asian mannikins (Estrildidae) might have been
called "Society Finch" (thought to be from the Society Islands?) in the
pet-bird trade, perhaps even the Chestnut Mannikin (Lonchura malacca),
which has a black head and brown body. Someone might have had that name in
their head from past pet-store visits. Or maybe I've imagined this.....

But from the nest and nest site it's obviously not a Bushtit, and juncos
typically nest on the ground. Maybe a case of a really inadequate
description? Get over there and take a look next spring, Michael.

Dennis Paulson, Director phone: (206) 756-3798
Slater Museum of Natural History fax: (206) 756-3352
University of Puget Sound e-mail: dpaulson at ups.edu
Tacoma, WA 98416