New Hanover mannikin is a species of estrildid finch breeding in New Hannover. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 20,000 to 50,000 km2. It is found in subtropical/ tropical (lowland) dry grassland habitat. The New Hanover mannikin has sometimes been treated as a subspecies of Mottled mannikin. The status of Mottled mannikin is evaluated as Least Concern.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago, Melanesia
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in subtropical/tropical lowland dry grasslands, grassy clearings, and disturbed areas with ample seeding grasses. It also uses edges of secondary forest, village gardens, and fallow fields where grass seed is abundant. Birds often move through weedy patches and along track edges, perching on seed heads to feed. They may frequent agricultural margins outside intensive cultivation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The New Hanover mannikin is a small estrildid finch restricted to New Hanover (Lavongai) Island in Papua New Guinea. It has often been treated as a subspecies of the Mottled mannikin, but differs slightly in plumage and range. It favors open grassy areas and often forms small, chattering flocks. As an island endemic, it can be sensitive to habitat changes, especially the loss of natural grasslands.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small flocks that forage together and keep contact with soft calls. Nests are dome-shaped structures woven from grass, placed low in dense vegetation or shrubs. Pairs may breed in loose colonies where suitable cover and food are concentrated.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, thin twittering phrases interspersed with dry chips. The song is simple and repetitive, used for pair contact and within small flocks.
Plumage
Compact finch with brown upperparts and mottled or scaly-looking underparts. The breast and flanks show fine pale and dark speckling, giving a blotched appearance. Feathers are tight and smooth, with a slight gloss on the head and mantle.
Diet
Primarily consumes small seeds of grasses and sedges, often taken directly from seed heads. Will pick fallen seeds from the ground and occasionally visits cultivated areas to exploit weedy margins. During breeding it may supplement the diet with small invertebrates to feed nestlings.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open grassy habitats, weedy clearings, and along paths and field edges. Often perches on tall grass stems to extract seeds and shifts to nearby shrubs for cover when disturbed.
