Common Hill Myna

Brief Description

A medium-sized, stocky member of the starling family known for its remarkable ability to mimic human speech and other sounds.

Additional Information

• Region of Origin: South and Southeast Asia
• Typical Sighting Period: Year-round resident in its range
• Plumage Details: Shiny black feathers with an iridescent green and purple sheen; white wing patches visible during flight; bright yellow wattles on the side of the head and nape; orange-yellow beak.
• Ecological Significance: Acts as a primary seed disperser and pollinator within tropical forest ecosystems by feeding on many varieties of fruits and nectar.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN), although local populations are threatened by the illegal pet trade.
• Observation Tips: Look for them in tropical rainforest edges or mangroves; they are often found in pairs or small noisy groups in the high canopy, often identified by their shrill, descending whistles.