Is this bird suitable for beginners?

The Crested Myna is generally considered a bird for intermediate keepers rather than absolute beginners. Having some prior bird-care experience, or doing solid research beforehand, will help you feel confident from the start.

Adults reach about 26 to 27 cm in length, a manageable size within the starling family. That said, they're quite active, so give them a cage roomy enough to move and stretch comfortably.

Are they really good at mimicking sounds?

Yes, Crested Mynas are known for imitating a variety of sounds in a clear voice. How well and how often an individual bird mimics varies, and it's one of the traits that gives each bird its own personality.

Are there legal restrictions on keeping one?

The Crested Myna falls outside CITES. Beyond that, it's worth thoroughly checking an individual bird's condition before deciding to bring one home.

What is their temperament like?

Many Crested Mynas are curious and enjoy interacting with their keepers. Personality does vary between individuals, though, so it helps to observe a bird's typical behavior before bringing it home.

Crested Myna

The Crested Myna is a striking all-black member of the starling family, instantly recognizable by the tuft of feathers that juts forward from the base of its bill. In flight, bold white patches flash across its wings, adding dramatic contrast to its otherwise glossy black plumage. At 26 to 27 cm long, it's a manageable size for dedicated keepers, and its clear, mimicking voice makes it an endlessly entertaining companion. Curious and vocal by nature, Crested Mynas often bond closely with their keepers, though their care needs place them in intermediate territory rather than a first bird for beginners.

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Crested Myna key facts

Care level: Intermediate
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Size: 26-27cm
Diet: Softbill pellets, fruit, insects and mealworms
Cage: As a softbill eating fruit and insects it produces wet droppings, so choose a cage that is easy to clean and put a tray under the perches.
Temperament: It tames well and is also gregarious. With too little stimulation it grows bored, so use foraging enrichment and toys.
Vocalization: It produces many different sounds in a clear voice and mimics; some birds copy human speech, and the volume carries indoors.
Notes: Birds have been imported into Japan since the Edo period and are now established in several areas. The species is on the Ministry of the Environment's Invasive Alien Species List (2nd edition) in the category for which control is under consideration, so escape must be prevented.

TraitsStarlingMimicOn the invasive listChinese origin

About Crested Myna

The Crested Myna is a black-plumaged starling relative known for its forward-facing crest, striking white wing patches, and talent for mimicking sounds. Adults reach 26-27cm and are best suited to intermediate keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Crested Myna

1Intermediate-Level Bird
The Crested Myna is generally considered suited to intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners. Having some prior bird-care experience, or doing thorough research beforehand, will help you provide the right environment from day one.
2A Signature Crest
The forward-jutting tuft of feathers at the base of the bill is this bird's most distinctive trait. Its shape and posture vary between individuals and can shift with mood, making it a fun detail to watch day to day.
3White Wing Flashes
Against its glossy black body, the large white patches that appear when the wings are spread are a real highlight. Positioning the cage where you can watch it stretch, preen, and move around lets you enjoy this feature fully.
4A Talented Mimic
Crested Mynas are known for mimicking a variety of sounds in a clear voice, adding personality to daily interactions with their keeper. Since the frequency and volume of vocalizing varies by individual, it's worth considering your living situation before bringing one home.
5Room to Move
At a manageable 26 to 27 cm, the Crested Myna is still an active bird that benefits from a cage roomy enough to move and stretch its wings freely. Regular opportunities for exercise outside the cage are worth building into your routine.
6Smart and Curious
Like other members of the starling family, Crested Mynas are curious and quick to learn, so daily variety and enrichment go a long way for their wellbeing. A flat, unchanging routine can lead to stress over time.
7Do Your Homework First
Before bringing one home, picture the day-to-day realities: feeding routines, cage cleaning, and managing its vocal habits around your household. Choose from a trustworthy breeder and ask plenty of questions about the individual bird's condition and typical behavior.

Frequently asked questions about Crested Myna

Q.Is this bird suitable for beginners?: A.The Crested Myna is generally considered a bird for intermediate keepers rather than absolute beginners. Having some prior bird-care experience, or doing solid research beforehand, will help you feel confident from the start.
Q.How big do they get?: A.Adults reach about 26 to 27 cm in length, a manageable size within the starling family. That said, they're quite active, so give them a cage roomy enough to move and stretch comfortably.
Q.Are they really good at mimicking sounds?: A.Yes, Crested Mynas are known for imitating a variety of sounds in a clear voice. How well and how often an individual bird mimics varies, and it's one of the traits that gives each bird its own personality.
Q.Are there legal restrictions on keeping one?: A.The Crested Myna falls outside CITES. Beyond that, it's worth thoroughly checking an individual bird's condition before deciding to bring one home.
Q.What is their temperament like?: A.Many Crested Mynas are curious and enjoy interacting with their keepers. Personality does vary between individuals, though, so it helps to observe a bird's typical behavior before bringing it home.