Scaly-breasted Munia

About the Scaly-breasted Munia in Singapore

Last updated 29 May 2026

The Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata), sometimes called the Nutmeg Mannikin, is a small, gregarious resident bird. They are common fixtures in Singapore's open grasslands, scrublands, and parks.

Identifying features

Check out some identifying features of the Scaly-breasted Munia!

The Scaly-breasted Munia features a warm, chocolate-brown head and back. It possesses an intricate, dark scale-like pattern covering its white chest and belly, alongside a thick, heavy, silver-grey beak.

Interested to learn more about how to identify Garden Birds? Check out our simple guide on identifying Garden Birds!

Habitat and ecology

Their thick beaks are specialized tools for cracking seeds! They are almost exclusively seed-eaters and are most often seen clinging to the stems of tall grass, stripping the seeds off. Because munias are highly social birds, they almost always travel and forage together in large, chattering flocks.

Did you know?

Because they forage in open, exposed grassy areas, feeding in large, tight flocks is a survival strategy. With so many eyes on the lookout, they can quickly spot approaching predators like snakes or birds of prey!

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Enjoy birdwatching, or interested to learn more about the ones you see in our parks and gardens? Join us for the Garden Bird Watch to collect valuable data about garden birds, which contributes to their conservation.

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