Crested Myna

The Crested Myna (<em>Acridotheres cristatellus</em>) is a distinctive member of the family Sturnidae, the starlings and mynas. Detailed plumage and behavioral descriptions of this species are limited in the available literature, though its name refers to a prominent crest on the forehead that distinguishes it from many congeners. It is primarily associated with grassland habitats and open agricultural landscapes across parts of East and Southeast Asia. The Crested Myna is an opportunistic omnivore in the manner typical of the genus, likely consuming insects, fruit, seeds, and human food waste. Nesting follows a cavity-nesting strategy, with an incubation period of approximately 15 days and a fledging period of around 29 days. Clutch sizes range from four to seven eggs, representing one of the larger clutch ranges within the genus and suggesting relatively high reproductive potential. The species is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN. It has also been introduced beyond its native range, including parts of North America and Europe, where small established populations have been recorded historically.