Common Hill Myna
NameCommon Hill Myna
Common NameCommon Hill Myna
Scientific NameGracula religiosa
FamilySturnidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is entirely glossy black with an iridescent purple and green sheen, particularly noticeable in good light. It has prominent bright orange-red bill and legs, and distinctive yellow wattles on the sides of the head and nape. A white patch is visible on the primary wing feathers during flight.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its wide repertoire of loud, varied, and often human-like calls, including whistles, screeches, gurgles, and mimicry of other birds and sounds. They are highly vocal and can produce complex sequences.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to Southern Asia, ranging from India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal through Southeast Asia, including parts of China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Identifying Featuresglossy black plumage, bright orange-red bill, prominent yellow facial wattles, yellow legs, white wing patches (visible in flight)
Description
The Common Hill Myna is a medium-sized, glossy black bird known for its striking appearance and remarkable vocal abilities. It is often found in tropical and subtropical forests, where it forages for fruits and insects in the canopy.
