The black mannikin or black munia, is a species of estrildid finch found in New Guinea, from Mandum to Lake Daviumbu, Papua New Guinea. It is commonly found in flocks of maximum 20 birds, inhabiting savannas, wetlands, but sometimes they were also seen at rice crops.
Region
New Guinea lowlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern and western New Guinea, frequenting open wetlands, seasonally flooded savannas, reedbeds, and the margins of rivers and swamps. It readily uses disturbed habitats such as rice paddies and grassy clearings. Birds often forage along the edges of sedge and cane stands. It is most commonly encountered in small flocks that move between feeding patches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the black munia, this small estrildid finch is confined to New Guinea’s lowlands. It forms loose flocks, often up to about 20 birds, and readily visits rice fields and wet grasslands. Its pale bluish bill contrasts strikingly with its otherwise sooty-black plumage.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in small flocks or family groups, sometimes joining mixed finch aggregations at seeding grasses. Pairs are monogamous and build dome-shaped nests in dense grass or reeds, often near water. Communal roosting in reeds or bushes is common outside the breeding period.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, high-pitched twittering and thin trills used for contact within flocks. Calls are modest and unobtrusive, often a series of tsip notes given in quick sequence.
Plumage
Uniform sooty-black to dark chocolate plumage with a slightly velvety texture; juveniles are duller brown.
Diet
Feeds primarily on grass and sedge seeds, often plucked directly from seed heads. It also takes spilled grain in agricultural plots such as rice fields. Small insects and other invertebrates are consumed opportunistically, especially during the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Forages in wet grasslands, reedbeds, and the margins of swamps and rivers. Frequently uses rice paddies and other open, disturbed areas with abundant seeding grasses.
