How to identify the Common Hill Myna

To correctly identify the Common Hill Myna (Gracula religiosa), 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

25-30 cm

Wingspan

40-45 cm

Weight

160-250 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Entirely glossy black with a purple-green sheen, especially noticeable in good light. It has prominent white patches at the base of the primary flight feathers, visible in flight.

2. 2

   Beak shape

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

   Stout, conical, and sharply pointed, bright orange-yellow in color, fading to yellow at the tip.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, almost black.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Bright yellow, with strong feet and claws.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The most distinctive features are the bright yellow fleshy wattles on the sides of the head. These wattles vary in shape and size depending on the subspecies, but typically consist of a large wattle extending from below the eye to the nape, and a smaller wattle below the eye. The bright orange-yellow bill is also a key identifier.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but have duller plumage, less glossy black, and their bill and wattles are paler yellow, gradually developing the adult's vibrant orange-yellow coloration.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal changes in plumage. The brightness of the wattles and bill may vary slightly with age and health.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are monomorphic, meaning they look identical in plumage and size. Sexing typically requires genetic testing or observation of breeding behavior.

Key field marks

• Plumage. Look for the overall glossy black plumage with a purple-green sheen. The white wing patches, visible in flight, are a key field mark.
• Head Markings. Identify the bright yellow-orange bill and, most importantly, the prominent yellow fleshy wattles on the sides of the head. The shape and extent of these wattles are crucial for distinguishing subspecies and similar species.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its incredibly diverse and loud calls, including whistles, screeches, gurgles, and mimicry. Its unique vocal repertoire is often the first indicator of its presence.
• Behavior. Observe its arboreal habits, foraging in the canopy for fruits and insects. They are often seen in pairs or small groups, actively moving through the trees.

Explore the Common Hill Myna