The Nias hill myna or Nias myna is a member of the starling family. It is an endemic resident of Nias and other nearby islands off western Sumatra. Clements lumps this species with the common hill myna.
Region
Offshore islands west of Sumatra (Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily on Nias and the nearby Batu Islands, with records from small satellite islets. It inhabits lowland and hill rainforests, forest edges, and semi-open woodlands with large fruiting trees. The species frequents secondary growth, coconut groves, orchards, and village trees where tall canopy remains. It relies on mature trees for nesting cavities and roosting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Nias hill myna is one of the largest hill mynas, famed for its loud, varied calls and strong ability to mimic sounds. It is confined to offshore islands west of Sumatra, notably Nias and the Batu Islands. Some taxonomies have lumped it with the common hill myna, but many authorities treat it as a distinct species with heavier build and larger wattles. Heavy trapping for the cage-bird trade has impacted populations.
Temperament
social and noisy
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, shallow wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, loose flocks. It nests in natural tree cavities, where both parents incubate and feed the young. Roosting can be communal in tall trees near feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, varied medley of whistles, gurgles, squawks, and metallic notes. Excellent mimic that can imitate other birds and human-made sounds, often repeated from prominent perches.
