Scaly-breasted Munia

Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata) is in the Waxbills and Allies family (Estrildidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 10,689 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in September.

Seasonal pattern in the national data: year-round resident. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.

When to photograph Scaly-breasted Munia: observations by month (U.S.)

About Scaly-breasted Munia

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...From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.

Scaly-breasted Munia by state

Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.

Related birds (Waxbills and Allies)

Java SparrowPadda oryzivora

Common WaxbillEstrilda astrild

Photography tips

• Use a fast shutter (1/2000 s or faster) for birds in flight.
• Focus on the eye and shoot at the bird's eye level.
• Approach slowly and stop if the bird changes behavior; never bait or flush birds.
• Morning activity peaks in the first two hours after sunrise.

FAQ