Sri Lankan Myna
Gracula ptilogenys
About the Sri Lankan Myna
The Sri Lankan myna is a glossy black starling endemic to Sri Lanka. It is slightly smaller than the more common common myna, with distinctive yellow wattles on the side of its head and a bright orange-yellow bill. It has iridescent purple-black plumage that shines in the sunlight. Sri Lankan mynas are highly intelligent and are considered one of the finest songbirds in Sri Lanka — they are excellent mimics of other bird calls and can learn to imitate human speech.
Wilpattu Significance
Sri Lankan mynas are residents of Wilpattu's forests. They are most active in the early morning when groups move through the canopy feeding on fruit. They are highly social and usually seen in small flocks of 3-8 individuals. Their vocal abilities make them one of the most engaging birds in the park. They often incorporate the calls of other species into their own songs, creating a complex and ever-changing vocal performance.
Conservation Status
Least Concern. Endemic to Sri Lanka but common within protected forest areas.
Best Season to See
Year-round, most active in early morning.
Best Locations in Wilpattu
- Forested areas near villus
- Manikwila
- Mahaweva
- Kokkare Villu surroundings
Viewing Tips
- 1Early morning is best — they are most vocal at dawn
- 2Listen for their varied calls — they mimic other birds
- 3Look for small flocks moving through the canopy
- 4They are bold birds and may approach vehicles out of curiosity
Photography Tips
- Sunlight on the glossy black plumage reveals iridescent purple highlights
- Side profile shows the yellow wattles and orange bill clearly
- Perch shots with natural background work best
- Vocalizing birds with open bill capture their songbird nature
Did You Know?
The Sri Lankan myna is one of the few bird species that has been documented using tools. In Wilpattu, individuals have been observed using twigs to extract insects from tree crevices — a behaviour once thought to be unique to primates and some corvids.
Ready to see the Sri Lankan Myna in the wild? Book a Wilpattu safari with expert naturalists who know exactly where and when to find them.