Bird Guide

Crested Myna vs Javan Myna

Crested Myna (Acridotheres cristatellus)

Crested Myna

Acridotheres cristatellus

Medium116 gGrassland

The crested myna is named after the tuft of feathers that form a crest-like structure on its forehead that covers the bird's nostrils. It is mostly black with a slight green sheen. It has a couple of white wing patches under its wings which are more visible during flight. The tips and the base of the primaries are white. The tail feathers also have white tips with the exception of the middle pair. The under-tail coverts are black with a white tip. The adult's eyes are orange, its bill is pale yellow, and its legs are a dull dark yellow. Its bill is slender and very sharp. Voice: The crested myna has a wide array of songs and calls, from whistles to warbles to chortles. When alarmed, it emits a raspy jaaay. Other calls include a series of chuffs or creeks. Vocal mimicry of human voices and other yard birds in crested mynas has been reported. However, birds held in captivity were not found to be good mimics.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Noel Reynolds · CC BY 2.0
Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus)

Javan Myna

Acridotheres javanicus

Medium94 gGrassland

The Javan myna is a stocky, medium-sized bird measuring 21–23 cm (8.3–9.1 in) in length and weighing approximately 100 g (3.5 oz). The plumage is mainly black with a slight glossy sheen. The wings are brownish-black, and the primary feathers have white bases that form a striking white wing bar visible during flight. A white tail bar is also displayed in flight. The undertail coverts are white, which is the basis for the alternative name "white-vented myna". A short, erect crest adorns the forehead. The beak, legs, and feet are bright yellow. Voice: The Javan myna has a varied vocal repertoire similar to that of the common myna. Calls include loud whistles, chattering, and harsh, grating notes. The species is often vocal, particularly at communal roosts where large numbers gather in the evening and produce a considerable cacophony.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: 胡正恆(Jackson Hu) · CC BY 4.0

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Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Crested Myna and Javan Myna.