This very social estrildid finch is an uncommon to locally abundant bird in much of Africa south of the Sahara Desert, where it is resident, nomadic or irruptive in mesic savanna or forest margin habitats.

It is the smallest and most widespread of four munia species on the African mainland, the other being black-and-white, red-backed and magpie mannikin.

[9] Two subspecies are recognised:[10] The bronze mannikin is one of the smallest munia species, measuring 9–10 cm in length and weighing 7–12 grams.

A small green iridescent patch is present on the outer scapular feathers, besides, especially in the western race, the sides of the lower breast.

They moult into full adult plumage by age six months, when the males also begin to sing and exhibit breeding behaviour.

This species has a number of calls including a rreep-rreeep in flight, a twittering when perched, consisting of various wheezy or buzzing notes.

[6] The bronze mannikin is native to mainland Africa and the Bioko, Pemba, Zanzibar, Mafia and Comoro islands, and has been introduced to Puerto Rico, where it is established.

[4] The two accepted races have an extensive region around the upper Nile River which is inhabited by birds with intermediate features.