The eastern alpine mannikin or alpine munia is a species of estrildid finch native to the Papuan Peninsula. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 20,000 to 50,000 km2.
Region
Papua New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
This species occupies open alpine and subalpine habitats on the Papuan Peninsula, including tussock grasslands, montane shrublands, bog margins, and edges of mossy forest near the treeline. It frequents ridgelines, valley clearings, and grassy slopes with scattered shrubs. Outside the breeding season it may descend slightly to feed along forest edges and montane gardens but remains in upland zones. It typically occurs in small loose flocks and can be locally common where suitable seed-rich grasses are abundant.
Altitude Range
1800–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Eastern Alpine Mannikin is a high-elevation estrildid finch confined to the mountains of the Papuan Peninsula in southeastern New Guinea. It forages in small groups in alpine grasslands and shrublands near the treeline and is adapted to cool nights and strong mountain winds. Like other munias, it builds a neat, domed grass nest with a side entrance. Its restricted range makes habitat protection in the Owen Stanley Range particularly important.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small flocks, sometimes joining mixed-seed flocks in open uplands. Nests are dome-shaped structures of fine grasses placed low in dense tussocks or shrubs. Breeding is likely timed to peaks in grass seeding, with both parents participating in incubation and chick rearing. Outside breeding, groups roost communally in sheltered vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, high, twittering phrases interspersed with thin, sibilant notes. Calls include quiet chips and buzzy trills used to maintain contact in short grass and windy alpine conditions.
Plumage
Compact finch with mostly dark brown to chocolate-brown plumage, slightly paler and warmer brown below with fine lighter fringes on some feathers. The head and face are often darker than the body, giving a hooded impression. Plumage is smooth and unbarred, with a neat, tidy appearance typical of munias.
Diet
Primarily seeds of alpine and montane grasses and sedges, taken both on the ground and directly from seed heads. It also nibbles on green shoots and the soft parts of young grasses. Small invertebrates may be taken opportunistically, especially during the breeding season for added protein. Grit is ingested to aid in seed husk processing.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open tussock grasslands, along bog edges, and on disturbed grassy patches near forest margins. Often forages in small groups, moving methodically through seed-rich areas and returning to favored patches as grasses ripen.
