Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata):
These are very small grain eating birds and look very similar to Sparrows. In our picturesque campus, they are mostly seen in groups of 10-15 birds while foraging for grains or other small seeds. In many cases they cannot be identified easily because of the totally camouflaging coat they have. I saw some of them yellow in color, perhaps caught and dyed to be sold as pets and later on freed. These are pretty famous pets I hear, called Nutmeg Mannikin or Spice Finch.
Distinctive Identifiers:
1. Broad, thick typical grain eating beak.
2. Dark brown gradient head
3. Brown body
4. Sparrow sized overall physique
5. Buffy underparts with scaly markings lending the bird its name.
Here are some pics to identify when you see them along roadside or in your backyard!
You take fantastic pictures of birds. I love birds and sometimes do amateur bird-watching (my father was a ardent birdwatcher and >I have inherited his binoculars and bird books). I have never done any serious photography, much less of birds. Thank you for “liking” my post. Hope you come back soon. I will visit yours and watch your progress as a photographer. Brianda
Posted by Brianda Domecq | February 17, 2012, 7:09 PMThank you for the compliment
Glad that you too share my love for birds!!
Posted by Hindupur Avinash | February 17, 2012, 7:13 PMgood photo
Posted by josephdonaghy6515 | February 18, 2012, 12:50 PMThank you
Posted by Hindupur Avinash | February 18, 2012, 1:04 PM