Crested Myna
Acridotheres cristatellus
Aves › Passeriformes › Sturnidae › Acridotheres
Conservation status: least_concern
The crested myna, also known as the Chinese starling, is a species of starling in the genus Acridotheres native to southeastern China and Indochina. It is named after the tuft of feathers on its forehead that resembles a crest.
How To Identify
It is a medium-sized myna characterized by predominantly glossy dark plumage, offset by striking yellowish markings around the neck or crest area. The head often features prominent cresting that helps define its silhouette.
Habitat
It typically inhabits open woodlands, cultivated areas, parks, and urban environments across southern and eastern Asia, preferring regions with scattered trees and human settlements.
Behaviour
Crested Mynas are highly social birds that often gather in noisy flocks, performing synchronized flying displays and engaging in vocal duets with characteristic harsh, discordant calls.
Did You Know?
The Crested Myna is one of the few bird species native to Asia that has successfully established wild populations in North America, particularly in Vancouver, Canada. Despite their invasive status abroad, they remain beloved in their native range for their distinctive spiky crest and acrobatic flight.
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