Lonchura grandis
The Great-billed Mannikin, Lonchura grandis, is a striking passerine belonging to the Estrildidae family, instantly recognizable by its exceptionally robust and conical bill. Adults typically measure 12-14 cm (4.7-5.5 inches) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 18-20 cm (7-8 inches), and weigh between 18-25 grams. Its plumage is predominantly dark, featuring a black head and throat that contrast sharply with a dark chestnut or blackish-brown body, often with a subtle green-purple shee...
Primarily found in tall, rank grasslands, reedbeds, and savanna edges, often near water sources in lowland and hill regions up to 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) elevation.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds of various grasses and sedges; also supplements its diet with small insects, especially when breeding.
Great-billed Mannikins are highly social birds, typically observed in active foraging flocks of 5-20 individuals, occasionally gathering in larger groups outside the breeding season. They forage predominantly on the ground or by clinging deftly to tall grass stalks, using their powerful bills to ...
The Great-billed Mannikin is endemic to the island of New Guinea, distributed across the lowlands and foothills. Its primary range encompasses significant portions of Papua New Guinea and the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua. As a non-migratory resident, it remains within its establis...
Least Concern
- The "Great-billed" moniker is well-earned; its bill is disproportionately large compared to its body, enabling it to crack unusually tough seeds. - Despite its robust appearance, its song is often described as soft, subdued, and somewhat buzzy, easily overlooked in its dense grassy habitat. - U...