Hooded Mannikin
A species of Mannikins Scientific name : Lonchura spectabilis Genus : Mannikins
Hooded Mannikin, A species of Mannikins
Botanical name: Lonchura spectabilis
Genus: Mannikins
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Don Roberson 
Description
The hooded mannikin is a small munia. It is whitish below, brown above and has a golden to orange rump. It is unlikely to be confused with other birds in its range. The juvenile is similar in appearance to the much larger in size juvenile great-billed mannikin L. grandis. 
Size
10 cm
Feeding Habits
Hooded Mannikin primarily consume seeds, particularly from Rottboellia exaltata. They forage by clinging to grass stems and exhibit a preference for algae in stagnant waters. Their consumption of seeds and algae are key dietary behaviors.
Habitat
Hooded Mannikin tends to inhabit foothills and mid-montane grasslands that are often modified by human activities. This species is adaptable and can thrive in various open areas like grasslands, canegrass, and gardens with tall grass, as well as landscapes with cereal grains and areas grazed by cattle and water buffaloes. Its habitat range extends from lowland plains up to elevations of 2000 meters, and occasionally it is found as high as 3000 meters. In particular, female hooded Mannikin may visit beaches during the breeding season to ingest calcium necessary for eggshell formation.
Dite type
Granivorous
General Info
Behavior
The hooded mannikin is usually found in flocks of up to 30 or 40 individuals (Meyer 1930). The species is so unwary of man that it could be stalked and caught by hand (Diamond 1967). A bonded pair will always stay close to each other. It has been seen that the male will stay alert for danger, while his mate feeds or bathes. When the female files off, the male will follow immediately.
Distribution Area
Nominate race occurs in island of New Britain, Long island and Rooke island. L. s. mayri occurs in Irian Jaya, ranging from the northern Lake Sentani area and the Cyclops mountains across into western East Sepik in Papua New Guinea. L. s. gajduseki occurs in eastern part of Chimbu Province L. s. wahgiensis occurs in the Herzog, Saruwaged and Bismarck Mountains of Morobe and Madang Provinces. L. s. sepikensis' occurs in the Sepik plains. L. s. "karimui" occurs in the western part of Chumbu. L. s. "korobae" occurs near Lanke Kopiago. L. s. "guariae" occurs in the Guari area in Central Province.
Photo By Don Roberson 
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Birds Order
Perching birds Family
Estrildid finches Genus
Mannikins Species
Hooded Mannikin 
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