How to identify the Javan Myna

To correctly identify the Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

21-25 cm

Wingspan

35-40 cm

Weight

70-120 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults are predominantly glossy black with a purplish-green sheen, especially on the head and upperparts. The underparts are slightly duller black. A distinctive white patch is visible at the base of the primary flight feathers, particularly prominent in flight. The undertail coverts are white. Some individuals may show a small, erectile crest on the forehead, though this is less pronounced than in some other myna species.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Stout, conical, and sharply pointed. Bright yellow to orange-yellow.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, often with a yellow orbital ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Bright yellow to orange-yellow.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Glossy black plumage, bright yellow bill and legs, and conspicuous white wing patches visible in flight. The white undertail coverts are also a key feature.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller and browner than adults, with less glossy plumage. Their bill and legs are typically duller yellow or brownish-yellow, gradually brightening with age.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal changes in plumage. The breeding and non-breeding plumages are similar.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are generally monomorphic in plumage, with no significant visual differences.

Key field marks

• Overall Plumage. Look for the uniform glossy black body plumage. This is the most striking feature distinguishing it from brown-bodied mynas.
• Bill and Legs. Note the bright yellow to orange-yellow bill and legs. This color is consistent in adults.
• White Wing Patches. Observe the prominent white patches at the base of the primary flight feathers, highly visible when the bird is in flight or stretching its wings.
• Undertail Coverts. Check for white undertail coverts, which contrast with the black body and are a key identifier.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its varied and often harsh calls, including chattering, whistles, and mimicry. They are quite noisy birds.
• Behavior. Look for them foraging on the ground in open, disturbed habitats, often in small groups or large flocks, especially in urban and agricultural areas.

Explore the Javan Myna