Scaly Breasted Munia (Wee Kurulla)
“The scaly-breasted munia or spotted munia (Lonchura punctulata), known in the pet trade as nutmeg mannikin or spice finch, is a sparrow-sized estrildid finch native to tropical Asia. A species of the genus Lonchura, it was formally described and named by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. 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. The species has 11 subspecies across its range, which differ slightly in size and color.This munia eats mainly 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”[1]
A Quick Observation: Twice a day comes a flock of Munias to feast on grass seeds followed by a bath. The clay pot kept on the ground amidst the grass and weeds is what attracts them for the bath. Sometimes the Scaly Breasted Munias join the group. Their routine includes eating, resting on branches and bathing. We will return with the others.
P.S Cleaning the pot daily is a must to ensure that it will not be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
