Lonchura hunsteini
The Mottled Mannikin, also widely known as the Grey-headed Mannikin or Hunstein's Mannikin, is a striking small passerine endemic to New Guinea and a few adjacent islands. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm (4-4.3 inches) in length and weighing 8-12 grams, this estrildid finch exhibits a distinctive plumage. Its most prominent features include a pale grey cap (forehead, crown, nape) contrasting sharply with a black face, chin, and throat. The back and wings are a rich chestnut-brown, transition...
Found in open grasslands, savannas, cultivation, gardens, and forest edges, often near human settlements and water sources. Typically occurs from sea level up to around 1,400 meters in elevation.
Primarily granivorous, feeding mainly on grass seeds, grains, and various other small plant seeds. Occasionally supplements its diet with small insects.
Mottled Mannikins are highly social and diurnal birds, typically found in small to large flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes numbering in the dozens or even hundreds. They forage predominantly on the ground, gleaning seeds from grasses and other plants, often in open, exposed areas. Dur...
The Mottled Mannikin is endemic to the island of New Guinea and several adjacent satellite islands. Its primary distribution covers the lowland and sub-montane regions across both Indonesian Papua (Western New Guinea) and Papua New Guinea. Specific islands where it is found include Biak, Yapen, a...
Least Concern
- The 'Mottled' in its name refers to the distinctive black and white barring or mottling on its flanks, a key identification feature. - It is also known as Hunstein's Mannikin, honoring the German naturalist Carl Hunstein. - Despite its restricted range, it is considered common and widespread wi...