About the Scaly-breasted Munia
The scaly-breasted munia or spotted munia, known in the pet trade as nutmeg mannikin or spice finch, is a sparrow-sized estrildid finch native to tropical Asia. A species of the genus Lonchura, it was formally described and named by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. Its name is based on the distinct scale-like feather markings on the breast and belly. The adult is brown above and has a dark conical bill. The species has 11 subspecies across its range, which differ slightly in size and colour.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The scaly-breasted munia is about 11–12 centimetres (4.3–4.7 in) long and weighs 12–16 grams (0.026–0.035 lb). The adult has a stubby dark bill typical of grain eating birds, brown upperparts and a dark brown head. The underparts are white with dark scale markings. The sexes are similar, although males have darker markings on the underside and a darker throat than females.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
What the Scaly-breasted Munia sounds like
Where the Scaly-breasted Munia lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Spain, Canada, Martinique, Bahrain.
When to see the Scaly-breasted Munia
Peak activity in October · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
White-rumped MuniaLonchura striataThe white-rumped munia is approximately 10 to 11cm in length, with a stubby grey bill and a long black pointed tail.
Chestnut MuniaLonchura atricapillaSmall, sexes alike, races differ slightly in intensity of colour.
Tricolored MuniaLonchura malaccaThe tricoloured munia is an estrildid finch, native to Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and southern China.
Side by side: Scaly-breasted Munia vs White-rumped Munia
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