If you live in India or Southeast Asia, chances are you’ve spotted a noisy, chatty bird perched on wires or rooftops. That’s most likely a Myna. But did you know there are two similar-looking species often confused with each other — the Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) and the Jungle Myna (Acridotheres fuscus)?
Both belong to the starling family, are smart mimics, and thrive around humans. However, a closer look reveals some striking differences. Let’s break it down.
1. Appearance
Common Myna:
- Has a glossy brown body with a black head.
- Distinctive yellow patch (wattle) around the eyes.
- Bright yellow beak and legs.
- Sleek, no crest on its head.
Jungle Myna:
- Slightly darker greyish-brown plumage.
- No yellow patch around the eye.
- Has a small tuft of feathers (crest) at the forehead, giving it a spiky look.
- Orange-yellow beak, sometimes with a bluish base.
2. Habitat
- Common Myna: Loves urban life — you’ll find it in cities, towns, markets, and near human settlements.
- Jungle Myna: Prefers rural areas, open fields, and forest edges, but occasionally visits towns.
3. Behavior
- Common Myna: Very bold, noisy, and often seen scavenging in groups. Known for competing with other birds for nesting spaces.
- Jungle Myna: Comparatively shy, often seen in pairs or small flocks. Their calls are softer compared to the Common Myna’s loud chatter.
4. Distribution
- Common Myna: Found widely across India, Southeast Asia, and introduced to countries like Australia and New Zealand.
- Jungle Myna: Found mainly in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, particularly in countryside regions.
Quick Identification Tip
If you spot a Myna in a crowded city with yellow skin around its eyes, it’s the Common Myna.
If you see one with a little crest on the head and no yellow patch, that’s the Jungle Myna
Both Common Myna and Jungle Myna are fascinating species that have adapted well to their environments. The next time you see one perched on a wire or rooftop, look closer — is it the city-loving Common Myna, or the crest-wearing Jungle Myna from the countryside?
