Scaly-breasted Munia

Description:

The Scaly-breasted Munia or Spotted Munia (Lonchura punctulata), known in the pet trade as Nutmeg Mannikin or Spice Finch, is a sparrow-sized estrildid finch native to tropical Asia.Its name is based on the distinct scale-like feather markings on the breast and belly. The adult is brown above and has a dark conical bill.

Habitat:

Scaly-breasted Munias are found in a range of habitas but are usually close to water and grassland. In India, they are especially common in paddy fields where they are considered a minor pest on account of their feeding on grain. They are found mainly on the plains, but can be observed in the foothills of the Himalayas, in which they may be present at altitudes near 2,500 m

Notes:

The above Munias were spotted on the Chitrachal Hill or the Nabagraha Hill in Guwahati, Assam, India. They were spotted feeding on Holt Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans) which grows abundantly during the winter months on the hills.The Indian Grass has many uses. It is very palatable for livestock in its active growing season and provides an excellent wild life habitat. Since it is very tolerant of poor soils, it can be used for erosion control in many areas where other plants won't thrive.