Lonchura quinticolor
The Five-colored Munia, *Lonchura quinticolor*, is a strikingly patterned, small Estrildid finch, measuring approximately 10-11 cm (4-4.3 inches) in length with a robust, conical bill. Its most distinctive field mark is the contrasting black face and throat, complemented by a pale bluish-grey crown and nape. The back and wings are a warm rufous-brown, contrasting sharply with a white belly and vent, and rich chestnut flanks. A broad black band stretches across its chest, creating a truly 'fiv...
Found in open grasslands, rice paddies, scrub, and forest edges, often near water sources. It primarily inhabits low to mid-elevation agricultural and disturbed areas.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on a variety of grass seeds, rice grains, and other small cultivated grains. Occasionally supplements its diet with small insects, especially when feeding young.
Five-colored Munias are highly gregarious birds, often forming large, active flocks that can number in the dozens or even hundreds outside the breeding season, sometimes mingling with other munia species. They are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging, typically gleaning seeds from the g...
The Five-colored Munia is endemic to the biogeographical region of Wallacea in eastern Indonesia and the Philippines. In Wallacea, its distribution includes Sulawesi, the Lesser Sunda Islands (such as Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores, and Timor), and numerous smaller islands within this region. Across the...
Least Concern
- The name 'quinticolor' literally means 'five-colored' in Latin, referring to its distinct black, grey, rufous-brown, white, and chestnut plumage. - Despite its vibrant coloration, this munia is known for its relatively quiet vocalizations, making it an excellent 'quiet neighbor' in its natural ...