The Bronze Mannikin (Lonchura cucullata scutata) is a small, common African finch found in gardens in Kenya. It is also called the Bronze Munia.

The Bronze Mannikin has a black to dark brown head, black tail and a two-toned beak. It has grey-brown feathers with barred brown and white sides and barred tail-coverts.

Bronze Mannikin

It can grow to 9 centimetres (3.5 inches) tall.

The Bronze Mannikin feeds on seeds, such as grass seeds, near water holes.

They are social birds, living in a flock of 8-20 individuals. Their nests are ball-shaped. Females lay 4-8 white eggs, which hatch after 12 days. The chicks are independent after three weeks.

Bronze Mannikin

Bronze Mannikin

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM