Why the Myna is not a single species but a diverse avian category

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The term myna is a linguistic umbrella, not a biological classification. These medium-sized passerines, native to the Indian subcontinent, belong to the starling family but encompass two distinct evolutionary lineages. From the critically endangered Bali myna to the invasive common myna, these birds reveal a complex history of adaptation.

The name myna originates from the Sanskrit word madanā, evolving through Hindi into the term we use today. Biologically, however, the group is not a natural unit. The term is applied to any starling found within the Indian subcontinent, regardless of their specific genetic relationships. Evolutionary history shows that this region was colonized by starlings twice, millions of years apart. The first wave consisted of ancestral birds related to the coleto and Aplonis lineages, while the second wave included ancestors of the common and wattled starlings.

These two groups exhibit physical differences that reflect their evolutionary paths. The later arrivals, which include many familiar mynas, generally possess more terrestrial adaptations, longer tails, and less glossy plumage, save for their heads. While they are typically medium-sized birds with strong feet and direct flight, their appearance varies; some species feature striking yellow head ornaments, though most sport dark, brown-toned feathers. They are gregarious creatures that prefer open country, nesting primarily in holes and feeding on a diet of insects and fruit.

Beyond their physical traits, mynas are renowned for their cognitive abilities, particularly their capacity to mimic sounds, including human speech, while in captivity. The common hill myna is especially famous for this skill. Their adaptability is perhaps best demonstrated by the common myna, Acridotheres tristis, which has successfully integrated into urban environments across the globe. While some species like the Bali myna face critical endangerment and near extinction in the wild, others have become highly successful invasive species in regions as diverse as Australia, North America, and South Africa, thriving in human-altered landscapes.

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