Photo 20. Physical characteristics: A medium-sized bird with a dark brown or greyish body, black head and neck, a yellow patch of bare skin around the eyes, and bright yellow bill and legs. A large white patch becomes visible on the flight feathers when the wings are open. It measures about 23–26 centimetres and weighs roughly 110–140 grams. Habitat and distribution: Originally an Asian bird, it has spread widely because of its ability to adapt. It is now common in Kurdistan, especially in and around Sulaymaniyah. It often lives in gardens, parks, around houses and near water, where it frequently bathes. Diet and behaviour: The Common Myna is omnivorous, eating insects, spiders, worms, fruit, seeds and human food waste. It is an intelligent member of the starling family and can imitate surrounding sounds, including human voices and other birds.
View on Map