Streak-headed mannikin


The streak-headed mannikin also known as the streak-headed munia, is a small estrildid finch. Some taxonomists consider ssp. leucosticta a distinct species.

Identification

Mainly dark brown plumage with light streaking on head and yellowish rump; subspecies leucosticta also with white spotting on face, breast and upper wing-coverts.

Call

Short buzzing note, repeated in flight.

Distribution

Endemic to New Guinea and some adjacent islands. It has been recorded from Saibai Island, Queensland, Australian territory in north-western Torres Strait.

Habitat

Grassy fringes of streams, forest clearings and abandoned gardens with secondary growth, in lowland New Guinea up to altitude.

Food

Seeds, berries and insects.

Breeding

Globular grass nest with side entrance, often suspended from rattans, in forest or at forest edge.

Conservation

As a species with a large range and no evidence of population decline, it is assessed as being of Least Concern.