indian silverbill

The Indian silverbill, also frequently called the white-throated munia (Euodice malabarica), is a small and social passerine bird. Belonging to the estrildid finch family, it is a common resident across the drier regions of the Indian Subcontinent and parts of the Middle East. Known for its hardy nature, it has also successfully established itself in various other parts of the world through introduction.

Measuring approximately 11 to 12 cm in length, the Indian silverbill is characterized by its conical silver-grey bill. The adult features buff-brown upperparts, clean white underparts, and buffy flanks. One of its most striking features is the contrast between its dark wings, black pointed tail, and a bright white rump. While males and females look similar, immature birds are identified by their buff underparts and shorter tails.

This species is highly adaptable but prefers dry open scrub, fallow land, and areas of cultivation. While they are most commonly found on the plains, they can inhabit regions up to 1200 meters in altitude. They are often found near water sources and have established feral populations in diverse locations such as Israel, Kuwait, and even parts of the United States and France.

The Indian silverbill is primarily a seed-eater. Its diet consists of:

• Grass seeds and seeds from sedges (Cyperaceae).
• Cultivated grains like rice and millet when available.
• Small insects, which provide essential protein.
• Flower nectar, particularly from nectar-bearing trees like Erythrina.

These birds are known to build untidy, dome-shaped nests using grasses and find shelter in thorny bushes or even old nests of other birds. While they are closely related to the African silverbill (Euodice cantans) and can produce fertile hybrids in captivity, they generally maintain distinct populations in the wild.

Indian silverbills are gregarious birds, typically seen foraging in small flocks. They spend much of their time on the ground or in low bushes searching for seeds. Although they are largely sedentary, some populations exhibit seasonal movements. They are known for their social nature, often huddling together while roosting.

The Indian silverbill is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This status is due to its extremely large range and the fact that its population appears to be stable, as it adapts well to human-modified environments like agricultural fields.

1. The species was originally classified by Linnaeus in the same genus as crossbills (Loxia).
2. The tail appears pointed because the feathers decrease in length from the center outwards.
3. Despite being seed-eaters, they are one of the few finches known to regularly visit flowers for nectar.
4. They have been introduced to many non-native regions, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

If you are looking for the Indian silverbill, focus your search on dry, grassy areas near farmland. They are often spotted near the ground in small groups. Listen for their soft, chirping calls, and look for the flash of their white rump when they take flight, which is a key identification feature in the field.

The Indian silverbill is a delightful example of the resilience of small passerines. With its distinctive silver bill and social behavior, it remains a favorite for birdwatchers across its native and introduced ranges. Its ability to thrive in dry, scrubby environments makes it a vital part of the grassland ecosystem.