The common or Indian myna, Acridotheres tristis, is native to Asia, including India. I photographed this individual at Kausani in the Indian Himalaya, and felt a curious twinge of recognition or familiarity, as this species was introduced to Aotearoa/New Zealand and is common in the northern half of the North Island. Regarded by the IUCN as one of the world's worst invasive species, it fortunately hasn't spread further south in New Zealand. As far as I'm aware, the reasons for this clear southern limit to its distribution aren't well understood. If anyone has good information on this, please let me know; otherwise, research on this might prove valuable in the eventual management of common mynas in countries where it's a serious threat to native species.
All content © 2009 Pete McGregor
What an incredibly sharp, well composed photo pete.
ReplyDeleteI must echo what Kiggavik said, so sharp and well composed.
ReplyDeleteClare and Robin Andrea, thank you.
ReplyDeleteYou really have a touch for the birds.
ReplyDeleteThanks Zhoen. I love them, and admit to a touch of envy at the ability most have to fly.
ReplyDeleteoh I envy them for self-propelled flight as well. beautiful picture... besides the great stature of the bird, I just gasp at that clear and harmonic blue color of the sky. too bad the flowers aren't fully bloomed, but i guess a little bit of sadness keeps the pic so real. congrats
ReplyDeleteD.V.A., my initial reaction about the flower was similar to yours, but then I thought maybe it adds something to encourage reflection — a little sadness, as you suggest, or maybe a hint of mortality. Cheers.
ReplyDeleteThe Indian Myna is making its presence felt in Australia. Even in my suburb I've noticed the Indian Mynas pushing the native Noisy Myna out of some areas. Both birds are quite aggressive toward other birds, but maybe the Indian Myna is a little more bossy!
ReplyDeleteChloe, Indian mynas seem to have a particular ability to invade new areas, hence their status as one of the world's worst invasive species. It does raise the question why their distribution in Aotearoa has remained so stable, though. For the sake of the other species, I hope that continues.
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