The vinous-breasted myna or vinous-breasted starling is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from Myanmar east through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, with extensions into adjacent southern China. Prefers open country with scattered trees, agricultural lands, riverine edges, and secondary woodland. Frequently uses village outskirts, orchards, and park-like habitats. Roosts communally in large trees or reedbeds near water. It tolerates moderate human presence and fragmentation.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The vinous-breasted myna (also called vinous-breasted starling) is a gregarious member of the starling family found across mainland Southeast Asia. It adapts well to human-modified landscapes and often forages in agricultural fields and village edges. Pairs typically nest in cavities, including holes in trees or buildings. Its pale, vinous-toned breast and bold white wing patches are distinctive in flight.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in small to medium flocks outside the breeding season, often mixed with other mynas. Forms monogamous pairs that nest in cavities in trees, buildings, or nest boxes, lining the cavity with plant matter. Communal roosting is common, especially near wetlands or tall trees. Displays cooperative vigilance while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of whistles, chatters, and harsh scolds, often delivered from exposed perches. Capable of mimicry and incorporating environmental sounds into its repertoire. Vocal activity increases at dawn and near roosts in late afternoon.
Plumage
Smooth, glossy body plumage with a pale, vinous-pink breast contrasting darker wings and mantle; head often pale to whitish with darker facial areas. Large white patches in the wings show clearly in flight. Tail dark with subtle pale edging.
Diet
Omnivorous, taking insects (beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars), small invertebrates, fruits, and seeds. Will also sample nectar and soft cultivated fruits when available. Opportunistically feeds on food scraps around settlements and farms. Forages mostly on the ground but also gleans from low foliage.
Preferred Environment
Open fields, pastures, paddy margins, village outskirts, and lightly wooded edges. Frequently follows ploughs or grazers to catch disturbed insects and searches hedgerows and orchards for fruit. Uses perches such as fence posts and low branches to scan for food.
