The crested myna (Acridotheres cristatellus), also known as the Chinese starling, is a species of starling in the genus Acridotheres native to southeastern China and Indochina. It is named after the tuft of feathers on its forehead that resembles a crest. The crested myna is typically found in open spaces near urban and agricultural areas. It is a popular cage-bird and, as a result, has been accidentally released in a few places outside of its usual range. For example, this species was introduced around 1890 into the Vancouver region of British Columbia, Canada. Like many starlings, the crested myna is omnivorous. It will eat a variety of food including worms, grub, grains, fruit, and even garbage. It is a highly beneficial bird to farmers as it predates on insects and does not attack crops.
This picture shows a crested myna photographed in Osaka, Japan.Photograph credit: Laitche
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