Bronze Mannikin
Spermestes cucullata
Least ConcernAves · Passeriformes · Estrildidae
About
The bronze mannikin or bronze munia is a small passerine bird of the Afrotropics. This very social estrildid finch is an uncommon to locally abundant bird in much of Africa south of the Sahara Desert, where it is resident, nomadic or irruptive in mesic savanna or forest margin habitats. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 8,100,000 km2. It is the smallest and most widespread of four munia species on the African mainland, the other being black-and-white, red-backed and magpie mannikin. It co-occurs with the Madagascar mannikin on the Comoro Islands, and was introduced to Puerto Rico. Especially in the West Africa, it is considered a pest in grain and rice fields. It is locally trapped for the pet bird trade.
Fun Fact
It is the smallest and most widespread of four munia species on the African mainland, the other being black-and-white, red-backed and magpie mannikin.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Native to mainland Africa and the Bioko, Pemba, Zanzibar, Mafia and Comoro islands, and has been introduced to Puerto Rico, where it is established.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds, including wild grass seeds, millet, rice and grain.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance