Common mynah

The common mynah (Acridotheres tristis) is a bird that is found throughout much of south and south-east Asia as well as Australia and New Zealand. Its preferred habitat is open countryside that is, however, close to populated areas. It is found at up to 9,000 feet in the Himalayas, although it descends to lower levels in the winter.


Appearance and behaviour

Males and females are similar in appearance, being around nine inches in length. The head, neck and upper breast are glossy black and the rest of the body is brown, with the belly being paler than other parts. There is a large white patch at the base of the primary wing feathers. The tail is very dark brown with a whitish tip.

The legs and bill are yellowish. The eyes are reddish brown and there is a prominent bright yellow patch behind the eye.

The common mynah’s call varies from squeaks and chatters to harsh, grating cries. It is renowned for being an excellent mimic and has been a popular cage bird for this reason.

The common mynah will eat almost anything, both in trees and on the ground. However, its main food comprises fruit, grain and insects.

It is a sociable bird and is often seen in small groups. It roosts communally and forms larger flocks in winter. When breeding it is strongly territorial and will attack any intruder.


Breeding

Breeding is usually between April and July (in the northern hemisphere) but there are regional variations.

Nests are built at between six and twenty feet above the ground, nest sites being holes in trees and on buildings. Suitable sites are used repeatedly and fought over aggressively. Nests are untidy constructions of twigs and roots plus whatever the individual birds can find, which may include household rubbish. Sometimes several nests are built within the same hole.

The number of eggs in a clutch can vary – four or five are usual, but three or six are not unknown. The eggs are incubated by the female for 14 to 18 days. The nestlings fledge at 22 to 24 days.

© John Welford