Lonchura punctulata, commonly known as the Scaly-breasted Munia or Spotted Munia, is native to South and Southeast Asia. This bird species is commonly found across India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, southern China, Indonesia, the Philippines, and extending to parts of Southeast Asia such as Thailand and Vietnam.

The Scaly-breasted Munia typically inhabits tropical and subtropical environments. It is found in a variety of habitats including open grasslands, savannas, cultivated fields, gardens, and forest edges. The species thrives in areas with abundant grass seeds and water resources.

Lonchura punctulata primarily occupies niches where it can access its primary diet of seeds, particularly from grasses and grains. The bird is well-adapted to agricultural landscapes and often found in small flocks, taking advantage of its environment to forage for seeds. It plays a role in seed dispersal and also serves as prey for various predatory birds and small mammals. Depending on the region, subspecies may have slight variations in habitat preference, adapting to local ecological conditions.