Mynah
The Mynah, also spelled Myna, is a group of passerine birds belonging to the family Sturnidae. There are around 60 different species of mynahs, and they are native to parts of Africa, Asia, and Australasia.
Here are some interesting facts about mynahs:
- Mynahs are medium-sized birds, typically around 9-12 inches (23-30 cm) in length, with a stocky build and short tail.
- They have a distinctive appearance, with a dark body, shiny feathers, and bright yellow or orange eyes.
- Mynahs are known for their ability to mimic human speech and other sounds, and they have been kept as pets for this reason.
- In the wild, mynahs feed on a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, and seeds.
- Some species of mynahs are considered pests, as they can cause damage to crops and compete with native bird species.
- The Common Mynah (Acridotheres tristis) is one of the most widespread and commonly recognized species of mynahs, and it has been introduced to many parts of the world.
- Mynahs are highly social birds and are often seen in large flocks. They communicate with each other through a variety of calls and songs.
- Some species of mynahs are known for their elaborate courtship displays, which involve dancing, singing, and other behaviors.
While mynahs are not considered endangered, some species have experienced declines in their populations due to habitat loss and fragmentation, hunting, and other human activities.
Scientific Name: Sturnus erythromycins
Origin: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman Mynah is a lively, inquisitive bird. A single bird or a pair can safely be kept in an aviary containing similar types, without aggression. The Andaman Mynah is easy to tame and can be taught to take mealworms from the hand. It is a good exhibition species.
Description:
Size: 20 cm (8 in)
COCK:
Head: white. Breast: white merging into light grey underneath. Back: light grey. Rump: white. Wings: black with a green sheen on outer flights. Tail: black tipped with white. Beak and legs: yellow. Eyes: white.
HEN:
Identical. Difficult to sex by appearance, so observe behavior.
Diet: (Softbill)
Insectile mix, fruit, and fresh ants’ eggs form the basic diet. Occasional mealworms should be provided, but too many make this bird fat. This specie sometimes picks up and eats a little millet seed. Andaman mynah likes to bathe, so a pool in the aviary is welcomed, and it chatters and calls excitedly as it splashes around.
It can stand extremes of heat and cold but needs protection from frosty conditions.
Breeding:
Few captive breeding has been recorded for this bird. Plenty of live food must be provided if breeding is to be encouraged. Mealworms and fresh ants’ eggs should be mixed with soil and sand in a bowl. A piece of freshly dug turf is much enjoyed, turned over so it may be picked at. Plenty of covers and a selection of nest sites are needed.
Mynah Information
- Mynahs are birds that belong to the starling family. Primarily these birds originate in Asia several species of this group of birds are found in various parts of the world like North America, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.
- The birds are medium-sized and are characterized by very strong feet.
- They are mainly found in open country lands and woodlands. Unlike other birds, the birds have been able to adapt well to human habitation.
- Most of the birds have dark brown plumage. Some of them even have yellow plumage at the head of the bird.
- The bird generally makes its nest in holes in trees or cavities. Those who are settled in human habitation build their nests in the spaces like building nooks, behind shutters, or any projecting surfaces and such.
- While breeding the birds form strongly bonded pairs. While rearing young ones both sexes take part.
- The young ones stay up for almost three weeks. They only leave the nest when they are completely fledged.
- The mynahs are highly territorial.
The common mynah is regarded as a pest in many countries like South Africa, New Zealand, several Pacific Islands, and especially in the country Australia as they are into destroying crops of farmlands. Several steps have been taken to control the number of birds. They are generally controlled by shooting while other pest-controlled methods like a snail and slug-repellant methiocarb are used as well.
See more: Orange Cheeked Waxbill