Mannikins
Birds in Focus...

Members of the genus Lonchura (species including the Nuns and Spice Finches) are often called Munia or Mannikins. The term Mannikin appears to be the preferred name used by aviculturist. Most are considered difficult birds to breed. In fact the entire Lonchura genus is somewhat renowned for the great difficulty in encouraging wild caught birds to go to nest in cages or aviaries. Fortunately most Mannikins, as they are often called, are hardy and many are very long lived birds, so this habit does afford the aviculturist an opportunity for experimentation. If one checks the breeding record, it seems that actually many species of Mannikins have been bred in captivity, but it goes without saying that all are considered difficult and true repetitive success is infrequent with most. Often times individual pairs of a particular species can be enticed to breed, and the obvious hope is that their offspring will behave similarly. This is seldom the case. The offspring of wild caught (F1) birds are often times just as likely to resist breeding as if they had also been wild caught.

All of this sounds quite depressing, but there is no doubt that this group of finches holds a special fascination with most finch breeders. It is not for bright, bold, or gaudy flashy coloration. Most of the members of this genus are only various shades and patterns of brown, black, white and similar colors. But that is their appeal! These various shades and patterns of brown, black, white, etc. are unparalleled in the finch world. Simply put, Mannikins are absolutely beautiful birds. Their constant sleek plumage and general appearance, their often bright silvery blue beaks, all serve to make these birds truly special to behold and enjoy. Certainly their hardiness is an asset. Even the first time finch keeper can maintain common species like the Spice Finch or the several of the various common Nuns, such as the Tri-Colored Nun, Black Headed Nun or White Headed Nun, with ease and with a confidence that they will remain healthy and live many years. You could not ask for a more interesting group of finches to keep.

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