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DESCRIPTION 5 inches (12cm). Chestnut-coloured body with white head, black underparts. Eyes brown, beak dark blue-grey, legs grey. Male's head sometimes brighter.
NATURAL DISTRIBUTION Malay Peninsula and neighbouring islands.
HABITAT Grassland, sometimes in very large flocks.
DIET Insects, cuttlebone, weed seeds, egg food, greens, canary-rearing food and stale bread
soaked in milk or water.
SPECIAL NEEDS Its fast-growing nails should be carefully trimmed twice a year. Needs fresh bathwater daily. Will not tolerate scrutiny during the breeding cycle; supply with perches high up in aviary.
CAGE LIFE Much in demand around the world. Although the breeding results are only average, it is possible that a couple will breed if cage is in quiet and restful spot; better chance if male munia is mated with a Bengalese. Lays 4 to 5 eggs, incubation 12 to 13 days, fledging 20 to 21 days, but still fed by parents for a while.
STATUS IN WILD Not listed as endangered.
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