Spotted munia

Lonchura punctulata

Spotted munia
Photo: Santhosh Korambil

It is a sparrow-sized bird native to tropical Asia. Its name is based on the distinct scale-like feather markings on the breast and belly. The adult is brown above and has a dark conical bill.

This munia eats mainly on grass seeds apart from berries and small insects. They forage in flocks and communicate with soft calls and whistles. The species is highly social and may sometimes roost with other species of munias. This species is found in tropical plains and grasslands. Breeding pairs construct dome-shaped nests using grass or bamboo leaves.

Source: Wikipedia