The pale-headed munia is a species of estrildid finch found in Indonesia. It is found in artificial landscapes, subtropical and tropical lowlands, dry shrubland and grassland habitat.
Region
Eastern Indonesia
Typical Environment
Found in open and semi-open lowland habitats including grasslands, dry shrublands, agricultural fields, and the margins of wetlands. It readily uses human-modified landscapes such as rice paddies and weedy field edges. Stands of tall grasses and reedbeds are important for both foraging and nesting. The species is generally local but can be common where suitable seeding grasses are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
This small estrildid finch frequents grasslands and rice fields where it feeds mainly on grass seeds. It often forms cohesive flocks and may mix with other munia species. The species builds neat, ball-shaped nests of grasses, and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually occurs in small to medium flocks outside the breeding season and may join mixed-species munia groups. Pairs construct spherical grass nests low in reeds or shrubs. Both sexes incubate and feed the young, with breeding often timed to peaks in grass seeding after rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, twittering notes and thin, high-pitched chips delivered from low perches or while foraging. The song is simple and repetitive, serving mainly for pair contact and flock cohesion.
