Gracupica jalla
The Javan Pied Myna (Gracupica jalla) is a strikingly patterned passerine bird, once common across Java and Bali, now critically endangered in the wild. Measuring approximately 21-23 cm in length and weighing around 70-85 grams, its plumage is a distinctive mosaic of glossy black and crisp white. Key field marks include its black cap and nape, bright white underparts, rump, and a broad white wing panel, contrasting sharply with its black back and wings. A prominent feature is the bare yellow ...
This myna primarily inhabits open country, agricultural lands, and urban fringes in lowland areas, thriving in disturbed habitats near human habitation.
Their diet is omnivorous, primarily consisting of insects, fruits, and seeds, supplemented occasionally by nectar or small vertebrates, usually foraged from the ground or low vegetation.
Javan Pied Mynas are highly diurnal and gregarious, often forming large communal roosts outside the breeding season, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. They forage predominantly on the ground, walking or hopping, meticulously probing the soil with their bills or gleaning insects from vegetation...
Historically, the Javan Pied Myna was endemic to the islands of Java and Bali in Indonesia, where it was a common and widespread resident. Its natural breeding range encompassed lowland open country, agricultural areas, and human settlements across both islands. It is a non-migratory species, rem...
Critically Endangered
- The Javan Pied Myna is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List, facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. - Its drastic population decline is almost entirely attributed to the illegal pet trade, with relentless trapping pressure. - Despite its common name, it is ...