Lonchura maja
The White-headed Munia (Lonchura maja) is a charming and distinctive estrildid finch, renowned for its striking bicoloration and social nature. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm (4.3-4.7 inches) in length and weighing around 12-14 grams, this small passerine boasts a pristine white head, throat, and upper breast, contrasting sharply with its dark chestnut-brown body, wings, and belly. A distinct white rump and a short, black tail complete its elegant appearance. Its stout, conical bill is typi...
This species primarily inhabits open grassy areas, wetlands, reedbeds, rice paddies, and scrubland, often near water sources. It is typically found at low elevations.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of small grass seeds, particularly those of cultivated rice, making them sometimes considered an agricultural pest. They occasionally consume small insects, especially when feeding young.
White-headed Munias are highly social and diurnal, often observed in large, active flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. They forage primarily on the ground or by clinging acrobatically to grass stalks and seed heads, exhibiting a characteristic shuffling or hop...
The White-headed Munia is a resident species native to a broad swathe of Southeast Asia. Its primary breeding range extends across the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, Bali, Borneo, and the Philippines. There are also well-established introduced populations in Singapore, and occasional records fro...
Least Concern
- The White-headed Munia is sometimes known as the 'Nutmeg Mannikin' in certain regions, though this name is more commonly applied to a different species. - They are highly adaptable and thrive in disturbed habitats such as agricultural fields and even urban parks. - Communal roosts can sometimes...