Scaly-breasted Munia

Lonchura punctulata

The scaly-breasted munia or spotted munia, 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 across its range, which differ slightly in size and colour.

Select tracking region

Where are you looking?

Select a tracking region above to ping the eBird database and reveal live hotspots for the Scaly-breasted Munia.

Low-Light Telephoto Systems

Identifying specific features of the Scaly-breasted Munia requires high-contrast magnification. Check out the top-rated 8x42 optics.

View Pro Optics

Expedition Prep

Targeting the Scaly-breasted Munia?

Build a custom travel itinerary around these hotpot clusters using our trip planning suite.

Open Planner