Chestnut Munia

The Chestnut Munia, known scientifically as Lonchura atricapilla, is a diminutive passerine that captivates with its contrasting plumage. The adult boasts a striking black head, a pale grey-blue bill, and a predominantly brown body. A distinctive brick red patch adorns the lower back, a feature that reveals itself in flight, adding a flash of color to its otherwise subdued tones.

Identification Tips

When observing the Chestnut Munia, look for its stubby bill of a pale grey-blue hue and the characteristic black cap that extends through the eyes, covering the head and throat. The body is a warm brown, with the hidden gem of a red patch on the lower back. The sexes appear similar, but juveniles can be distinguished by their uniform pale brown upperparts and white to pale buff underparts, lacking the dark head of the adults.

Habitat

The Chestnut Munia is a sociable bird that thrives in open grasslands and cultivated areas. It is often seen in flocks, busily foraging for seeds among the grasses.

Distribution

This species has a broad range across Asia, with populations found in Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and even as far afield as Hawaii. It has also been introduced to the Greater Antilles and Martinique in the Caribbean.

Behaviour

The Chestnut Munia is gregarious by nature, often seen in flocks. It primarily feeds on grains and seeds, foraging on the ground or in low vegetation.

Breeding

The nest of the Chestnut Munia is a large, dome-shaped grass structure, often situated in a bush or amidst tall grasses. Within this hidden fortress, the female lays a clutch of 4-7 pristine white eggs.

Similar Species

The Chestnut Munia may be confused with the closely related Tricoloured Munia, from which it was formerly considered conspecific. However, the Chestnut Munia can be distinguished by its unique coloration and range.

Diet and Feeding

This bird has a penchant for seeds, making grain fields and grasslands its dining areas of choice. Its diet consists mainly of seeds, which it adeptly picks with its stubby bill.

Conservation status

The Chestnut Munia is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, for now, this species does not face any imminent threats to its survival on a global scale.