Description:

The Nutmeg Mannikin is a social bird that is often found feeding in large groups. Feeds on seeds of grass and weeds in open grassy areas. Also known as Ricebird or Spotted Munia.


Appearance:

Brown upperparts. Chestnut brown throat. Dark brown face and forehead. Whitish-buff underparts. Breast and flanks marked with dark brown crescents. Dark bill and legs. Immature is lighter brown with buff underparts. Sexes similar. 4 inches in length.


Habitat:

Open grassy areas. Native to Southeast Asia. Introduced to Hawaii in around 1865.


Nesting:

3-4 whitish eggs. The eggs have a ? day incubation period. Fledging occurs in ? days. The nest is domed and made from grass, plant stems, coconut fiber, and lined with softer material, such as moss and feathers.


Observed Locations:

• Golf course near "the dragon's teeth", Maui, Hawaii