The chestnut-breasted Mannikin are small birds that are part of the estrildid finch family. In the wild, they can be mostly be found in the Australian swamps, in grassy country, mangroves, in cane fields and cereal crops. In New Guinea, the chestnut-breasted mannikin is found in drier areas. In these areas they typically inhabit open areas and build grass structures during the breeding season.
Names: Other names include the chestnut-breasted mania or bully bird.
Description: The chestnut-breasted Mannikin have a brown back with a black face and grayish crown and nape. It has a rust colored(chestnut) breast and a white belly. Males and females are similar although the male sings where the female does not. Also, males typically have a broader and bolder head and beak, the face is blacker with less flecking. The chest is also a brighter chestnut than the female.
Breeding: Typical clutch is 4-8 eggs. The male stands guard while the female sits on the eggs. Incubation is 13-14 days and fledging occurs 18-21 days.
Diet: Paradise Earth Premium Finch Blend can be used to feed your mannikin, however soft foods like greens and sprouting seeds will provide an extra treat. If you are interested in breeding your Mannikin, feed them mashed eggs for extra nutrition and provide them with a finch box for a sense of privacy and protection during the stressful time of breeding.