Common Myna

A few words: Dera doesn't seem to have a very large myna population. However, they can be easily found. They often aggregate in groups on the paths and roads that wind through the forest and farm alike. Perhaps their most noticeable feature is the yellow markings around both eyes. They make for good photography subjects; not shying away from the camera and moving relatively slow.

The IUCN Species Survival Commission has declared mynas to be one of the world's most invasive species. In-fact, it is one of only three birds in the top 100 species that poses a threat to biodiversity, agriculture and human interests.

A perfect specimen

Common name: Common myna

Scientific name: Acridotheres tristis

Scientific classification: Kingdom: Animalia
                                               Phylum: Chordata
                                               Class: Aves
                                               Order: Passeriformes
                                               Family: Sturnidae
                                               Genus: Acridotheres
                                               Species: A. tristis

Type of species: Indigenous

Distribution: Though it is native to Asia, it has been introduced in a large number of countries, from Canada to Australia. This has made the myna a global presence.

Habitat: Open woodland, agricultural regions and areas around human habitation.

Conservation status: Least concern

Sound recording: http://www.xeno-canto.org/364334


Distribution map:

                       

Source: scielo.org.za