The Sulawesi myna is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Sulawesi and adjacent islets (Wallacea, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It also forages in mixed agroforestry mosaics where fruiting trees remain. The species uses the mid- to upper canopy but will descend to lower levels when fruit is abundant. It tolerates some habitat alteration but is most frequent in relatively intact lowland forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This glossy, crested starling is found only on Sulawesi and nearby islets in Indonesia. It helps disperse the seeds of many forest trees by feeding on fruit. Although currently not at immediate risk, ongoing habitat loss on Sulawesi could affect local populations. It is sometimes confused with the rarer Helmeted Myna, which has different head ornamentation.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy groups and sometimes in mixed-species flocks with other starlings. Nests are placed in tree cavities or crevices, with both parents contributing to care. Display behaviors often include raising the crest and vocal exchanges between mates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of clear whistles, chatters, and metallic notes. Calls are loud and carry through the canopy, used for contact within small groups.
Plumage
Glossy dark plumage with an erectable crest and sleek, smooth feathering typical of starlings.
Diet
Takes a wide range of fruit, including figs and small drupes, and supplements this with insects and other invertebrates. It gleans from foliage and branches and will sally to catch larger insects. At fruiting trees it may feed alongside other frugivores, helping disperse seeds through the forest.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid- to upper canopy, especially at fruiting trees along forest edges and clearings. It will also forage in secondary growth and semi-open habitats with scattered tall trees.
