Myna birds are highly social creatures that have successfully adapted to various environments. As a child, I remember relying on the presence of a pair of Mynas to bring me good luck before exams. Their arrival was a comforting omen of success, but the absence of a pair was a terrible sign of impending failure.

Common Mynas are ubiquitous in urban settings and are opportunistic feeders, consuming a diverse array of insects, worms, fruits, and seeds. They have a sturdy build and walk mostly upright, their well-combed heads bobbing back and forth with each step. These adaptable birds are unfazed by human presence, and can often be found feeding on freshly plowed lawns and fields. Even though they have become so accustomed to human presence, they remain remarkably unperturbed even when approached up close, before suddenly taking flight with a classical ku-lucu-luc call that echoes through the air.

These birds are so sociable that they often gather in large groups for roosting and can be heard singing and chattering incessantly as they settle in for the night. I recall watching a flock of Mynas gather for roosting in the bustling bazaars of our town at twilight, their chatter filling the air with a symphony of sound.

A crippled common myna surviving the wild, depicting remarkable resilience of the species. Clicked at Dharamshala.

The Jungle Myna is easily distinguished from its common cousin by the lack of a yellow patch behind the eye. These birds are often spotted in cultivated areas surrounding settlements and have adapted well to urban life. In fact, I believe the prefix “jungle” is now obsolete when referring to these adaptable creatures.

The Pied Myna differs from its common cousin in its timid nature, besides the obvious differences of colour and pattern. It is commonly found in the plains and enjoys similar dietary habits as the common Myna.

In addition to these two species, there are other notable members of the Myna family, including the Bank Myna and Brahminy Starling. Bank Myna is a highly sought-after bird due to its unique ability to mimic human speech. Its distinctive ability to repeat words and phrases has made it a favorite among bird enthusiasts and pet owners alike. This bird’s striking plumage only adds to its allure, making it an impressive sight to behold.

Meanwhile, the Brahminy Starling is known for its contrasting mix of black and white feathers with hints of iridescent green and purple. Found in a range of habitats, from mangroves to open forests, the Brahminy Starling is known for its striking voice and remarkable vocal range, which can range from soft and melodious to loud and piercing.

The Myna bird is truly a wonder of nature, with its remarkable adaptability, social nature, and unique vocal abilities. Whether it’s the Common Mynah, the Jungle Mynah, the Bank Mynah, or the Brahminy Starling, each species offers a unique glimpse into the fascinating world of avian life.