Black Mannikin

The Black Mannikin, also known as the Black Munia, bears the scientific name Lonchura stygia. This small, elusive bird is adorned with a predominantly dark plumage, which gives it its common name.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Black Mannikin, look for its characteristic dark feathers that cloak its body. This bird is a member of the Estrildidae family, which is known for its finch-like appearance.

Habitat

The Black Mannikin is a versatile species, often found in the savannas and wetlands of New Guinea. However, it is not uncommon to spot these birds in agricultural areas, such as rice crops, where they may gather in search of food.

Distribution

This species has a range that extends from Mandum in Papua (formerly known as Irian Jaya, Indonesia) to Lake Daviumbu in Papua New Guinea. It is a bird of the region, thriving in the unique ecosystems of New Guinea.

Behaviour

In the wild, Black Mannikins are social creatures, typically seen in flocks that can number up to 20 individuals. They exhibit a strong preference for the company of their own kind.

Conservation status

The Black Mannikin is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. The primary threats to its survival include habitat destruction, particularly the loss of reedbeds due to the introduction of rusa deer (Cervus timorensis). Additionally, the encroachment of woodland on grasslands, driven by an increase in livestock such as pigs, poses a significant risk. The cage-bird trade also has a detrimental impact on their populations.

Threats

The Black Mannikin faces several threats that jeopardize its existence. The destruction of reedbeds, a crucial habitat for the species, is primarily due to the introduction of non-native rusa deer. Furthermore, the expansion of woodland into grasslands, attributed to the rise in livestock numbers, and the pressures from the cage-bird trade, are all factors that contribute to the species' precarious status.