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
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9 comments:
What an incredibly sharp, well composed photo pete.
I must echo what Kiggavik said, so sharp and well composed.
Clare and Robin Andrea, thank you.
You really have a touch for the birds.
Thanks Zhoen. I love them, and admit to a touch of envy at the ability most have to fly.
oh 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
D.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.
The 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!
Chloe, 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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