Image via Macaulay Library
Bronze Mannikin
- Scientific name
- Spermestes cucullata
- Family
- Estrildidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Grassland
- Wing shape
- Rounded
- Tail shape
- Short
Where it came from
The Bronze Mannikin, scientifically classified as Spermestes cucullata, is a small estrildid finch native to sub-Saharan Africa. While not a manufactured object, its historical integration into the avicultural trade began in the 19th century as European naturalists and explorers documented the diversity of African songbirds. These birds were sought after for their social temperament and the distinctive, metallic-like sheen of their bronze plumage, which inspired their common name.
The bird's physical characteristics, particularly its rounded wing shape and short tail, are evolutionary adaptations suited for its life in open woodland and savanna habitats, where it maneuvers through tall grasses to feed on seeds. Within the context of ornithology and human appreciation, the species has been studied for its complex social hierarchy and communal roosting habits. It remains a subject of interest for both field researchers observing its natural range and collectors who value its quiet, gregarious nature in an aviary setting.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Bronze Mannikin
Bronze Mannikin is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Bronze Mannikin on collecto.rs?
Bronze Mannikin doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Bronze Mannikin?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Bronze Mannikin catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Bronze Mannikin is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
