The tricoloured munia is an estrildid finch, native to Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and southern China. The species has also been introduced to the Caribbean, in Trinidad, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Venezuela. This species, like the chestnut munia has been known as the black-headed munia. Immature birds have pale brown upperparts, lack the dark head found in adults, and have uniform buff underparts that can be confused with immatures of other munias such as the scaly-breasted munia.
Region
South Asia (native); Caribbean and northern South America (introduced)
Typical Environment
Occurs across open country with grasses and crops, especially in and around rice paddies, marsh edges, and weedy fields. It frequents reedbeds, fallow lands, and agricultural mosaics with scattered shrubs. In urban and peri-urban settings it uses parks, canals, and vacant lots with seeding grasses. Introduced populations thrive in similar habitats on tropical islands and coastal lowlands.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 4/5
Also known as the black-headed munia in parts of its range, this small estrildid finch shows a striking tri-color pattern: black head, rich chestnut body, and a clean white belly. It is highly adaptable and often forms large flocks in rice-growing regions, where it can be considered an agricultural pest. Juveniles are buffy and lack the dark head, which can cause confusion with other munias. In introduced areas, it can establish feral populations quickly.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with an undulating path
Social Behavior
Highly gregarious outside the breeding season, forming cohesive flocks that forage and roost together. Nests are globular structures of grass placed in reeds, bushes, or crop margins; both sexes participate in building and incubation. Breeding often occurs in loose colonies near abundant seeding grasses.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, twittering calls and thin, buzzy trills delivered from exposed perches. Males perform simple display songs, often holding a grass blade while bowing.
