The Common Myna is a medium-sized species of songbird related to starlings. They are native to parts of Asia but its range is increasing rapidly and the species is considered a pest in many places.
Common Mynas compete with native birds in several areas where they have been introduced. Escapees in South Africa are well established near human habitation and are considered to be agricultural pests in addition to the damage they inflict on native South African birds. The Common Myna was intentionally introduced to Victoria, Australia, in the late 1860s as a natural insect control method in gardens. It was intentionally released in Queensland later as a control for agricultural pests like grasshoppers and cane beetles. Today Australia considers the Common Myna to be their most important pest problem.
Common Mynas are known by other names, including the Indian Mynah. They are omnivores, feeding on a wide variety of food items, including insects, reptiles, seeds, fruit, and scraps foraged from garbage dumps.
2017 Bonanza Bird #5: Common Myna
Today's new bird is the Common Myna!
The Common Myna is a medium-sized songbird native to parts of Asia. Today the species is known in more parts of the world as a pest. ... more
