Order Passeriformes Genus Lonchura Higher classification Munia | Phylum Chordata Family Estrildidae Scientific name Lonchura molucca Rank Species | |
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Similar Pale‑headed munia, Munia, Streak‑headed mannikin, Bird, Dusky munia | ||
The black-faced munia (Lonchura molucca) is a species of estrildid finch found in Indonesia. Other common names include tricoloured munia or chestnut munia. It occurs in a wide range of habitats including artificial landscapes (e.g. parks and gardens), forest, grassland and savannah. It was first described by theSwedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in the twelfth edition of his Systema Naturae in 1766. The IUCN has evaluated the status of this bird as being of least concern.
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Description
The black-faced munia has a black head and upper throat contrasting with the rufous brown upper parts and the pale lower throat and underparts. The tail, lower belly and the under-tail coverts are black. The bill is thick and bluish-grey and the legs are dark-coloured. In another colour phase, the underparts are brown rather than pale.
Distribution
The black-faced munia is native to Indonesia including the island group of Wallacea but is absent from the Lesser Sundas. It is also present in East Timor. It is a seed-eating bird and is found in small flocks in grassy areas. It has been introduced into South America and is now established on the plain of Los Llanos in northern Venezuela at altitudes below 300 metres (1,000 ft).
Status
The black-faced munia has a wide range and is said to be abundant in some places and common in many others. The population in Indonesia has not been evaluated but the population trend seems to be steady. The bird is facing few identified threats and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has assessed its conservation status as being of "least concern".
