Southern Hill Myna

Glossy black myna of southern India and Sri Lanka. Note white wing patches, bright orange bill, and yellow head wattles. Inhabits foothill forests, where it is most often encountered high up in the canopy in pairs or small flocks. Gives various croaks and screams, but is less vocally accomplished than the very similar Common Hill Myna, which does not overlap in range.

The southern hill myna (Gracula indica) is a member of the starling family. It is a resident of the forested regions of south India and Sri Lanka. This species moves around in flocks in the forest, and members of a flock keep in contact with a wide range of vocalizations.

ruit of figs (Ficus) and berries of sapu tree (Michelia champaca) recorded in diet; nectar taken from Bombax, Erythrina, Grevillea trees, and the forest shrub Helicteres isora. Forages mainly in treetops. Generally in pairs or small groups; may flock at flowering trees.