Like other Munias, Javan Munias eat grass seeds. Their ability to e at
the seeds of short grasses may be one of the reasons for their success ,
they forage in park lawns and open scrub. But they also take seeds from
taller grasses.Javan Munias usually live in pairs or small groups.
But they may gather in larger flocks at food-rich sites such as ripening
rice fields. They also join flocks of other Munias like the
Scaly-breasted Munias.
Breeding: Where food is available year round, Javan Munias breed
constantly. Otherwise, they breed mainly in the wet season. A male tries
to attract a female with a complex song and when she is within sight, he
fans out his tail and leans forwards. He then edges towards her with his
belly and flank feathers fluffed out while swaying side to side.
Javan Munias usually nest in trees and bushes. They build globular
nests out of dried grass leaves and stems, lined with soft fluffy grass
seeds. In Sungei Buloh Nature Park, these little birds are particularly
fond of nesting in the potted ferns that hang along the visitor centre.
This habit of nesting in ornamental plants was also observed in hotels
in Bali . 5-6, up to 9, white eggs are laid. Both parents may incubate,
or just the female with the male standing guard and chasing off other
Javan Munias. The eggs hatch in 13 days and the young are fed
regurgitated seeds, the parents choosing soft ripening seeds rather than
hard, dry ones. After they fledge in 18-20 days, the young may stay with
the parents near the nest for some time.
Status and threats: Javan Munias are often considered a pest on paddy
and other grain crops. They are often caught with other Munias, but
never in very large numbers. |
