Gracula venerata
The Tenggara Hill Myna, *Gracula venerata*, is a striking medium-sized passerine bird, endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia, distinguished by its glossy black plumage with iridescent purplish-green sheens. Averaging about 27-30 cm in length, its most distinctive feature comprises prominent, fleshy, bright orange-yellow facial wattles that extend from below the eye and across the nape, contrasting sharply with its dark feathers. In flight, conspicuous white patches are visible on i...
This species primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, forest edges, and disturbed wooded areas, often found near human settlements, from sea level up to around 1000-1200 meters elevation.
Their diet consists primarily of fruit, particularly figs and berries, supplemented with insects, nectar, and occasionally small vertebrates. They forage mainly in the tree canopy.
Tenggara Hill Mynas are diurnal birds, typically seen in pairs or small family groups, occasionally forming larger foraging flocks at abundant fruit sources or congregating at communal roosts in tall trees. They are largely arboreal, foraging actively in the canopy by gleaning insects from foliag...
The Tenggara Hill Myna is endemic to a restricted range within the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia. Its distribution spans several islands, including Sumbawa, Flores, Komodo, Rinca, Lombok, Alor, Pantar, and possibly other smaller neighboring islands. This species is entirely resident within it...
Near Threatened
- The Tenggara Hill Myna was only recently recognized as a distinct species from the Common Hill Myna, highlighting ongoing discoveries in avian taxonomy. - Its scientific name, *Gracula venerata*, can be translated to 'revered myna,' likely due to its highly prized vocal mimicry abilities. - The...