Poet of Nature-The Scaly-Breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata)

The munia bird, a gem of Bangladesh's nature, is widespread across the Indian subcontinent. Slightly smaller than a sparrow, five species of munia are found in the country, among which the scaly-breasted munia stands out. It gets its name from the white spots on its upper belly. These birds, part of the Estrildidae family and the Lonchura genus, flock together in fields, reed forests, and gardens. Known in English as the scaly-breasted munia and scientifically as Lonchura punctulata, this small granivorous bird is a remarkable species.

The scaly-breasted munia measures about 11.5 cm in length and weighs approximately 13.5 grams. Adult birds have an olive-brown back, a dark chin running from the head to the tail, a reddish-brown head, and a black bill. Their underbelly and breast are dark brown with white spots, resembling the pattern of fish scales, giving them an artistic appearance. While both male and female birds look similar, males have a darker chin. Juveniles have a brown back, and the upper body of chicks is brown while the lower part is reddish-yellow, lacking the white spots on the breast.

Their preferred diet includes grass seeds, millet, and rice. Their short and sturdy beaks allow them to easily husk rice and other grains. They also consume juicy fruits and insects. The breeding season spans from May to September. Female munias lay 4 to 8 white eggs, similar in size to lizard eggs but with a thinner shell. Both parents incubate the eggs for about two weeks and take care of the chicks together.

The scaly-breasted munia builds nests from late summer to early autumn. They construct spherical nests hidden behind palm leaves, in dense thickets, and on trees such as babul, casuarina, pandanus, and cedar. These nests are made from materials like thatch, straw, kans grass, doob grass, rice leaves, sugarcane leaves, jute fibers, and bamboo leaves. They often build nests in inaccessible locations with secret entrance tunnels.

Keeping birds has been a longstanding human tradition. The scaly-breasted munia can be bred and raised in captivity, which has led to their decline in the wild. According to the IUCN, although they are classified as of least concern, they are losing their natural habitat. Consequently, this beautiful bird is at risk of disappearing from nature.