The grey-banded mannikin, or grey-banded munia, is a species of estrildid finch known to be found in Anggi Gigi, Tamrau Mountains, and Arfak Mountains in the Vogelkop Peninsula in north-western Papua, Indonesia. This species inhabits mid-mountain wet grassland and marshland. It also can be found on abandoned agricultural plots near human settlements.
Region
New Guinea (West Papua, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs locally in the Anggi Giji area and the Tamrau and Arfak Mountains of the Vogelkop Peninsula. It inhabits mid-montane wet grasslands, sedge marshes, and edges of moist montane forest. The species also uses overgrown, abandoned agricultural plots and weedy clearings near human settlements. Records are patchy and often clustered around highland lake basins and marshy valleys.
Altitude Range
1200–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the grey-banded munia, this small estrildid finch is confined to the Bird’s Head (Vogelkop) Peninsula of West Papua, Indonesia. It frequents mid-montane wet grasslands, marshy edges, and abandoned gardens near settlements. Like many munias, it forms small flocks outside the breeding season and forages low in grasses and sedges. Its subtle grey breast band is the key field mark separating it from other local munias.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding arcs
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Nests are likely globular grass structures placed low in dense vegetation or reeds near wet areas. Pairs may maintain small territories around suitable feeding and nesting sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, high-pitched twittering and tinkling notes given from low perches or while foraging. Contact calls are short chips used to keep flock cohesion in tall grasses.
