Vinous-breasted Myna

Acridotheres leucocephalus

A social songbird known for its distinctive light head, chestnut chest and black eye-mask, this Asian native has established thriving populations across Southeast Asia's towns and farmlands.

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Visual Identification

Appearance

The Vinous-breasted Myna is characterised by its distinctive dark eye mask, which sharply contrasts with its light, almost white head and chestnut brown body.

Its wings and tail are dark brownish-black, while the underparts show a rich vinous-brown colouration. The bird has bright orange-yellow legs and a yellow bill.

Both sexes look similar, with no significant seasonal plumage changes. Juveniles have a duller overall appearance, with a brownish head instead of white.

Size

Length

23cm to 25cm

Wingspan

40cm to 45cm

Weight

80g to 110g

Colours

Males and females have similar plumage

Primary Colour

Brown White

Secondary Colour

Black

Beak Colour

Yellow

Leg Colour

Yellow Orange

Habitat and Distribution

Habitats

Woodland

The Vinous-breasted Myna can be found in Woodland habitats.

Garden

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Garden habitats.

Wetland

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Wetland habitats.

Coastal

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Coastal habitats.

Urban

The Vinous-breasted Myna can be found in Urban habitats.

Farmland

The Vinous-breasted Myna can be found in Farmland habitats.

Grassland

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Grassland habitats.

Desert

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Desert habitats.

Tundra

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Tundra habitats.

Rainforest

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Rainforest habitats.

Mountain

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Mountain habitats.

Savanna

The Vinous-breasted Myna is not typically found in Savanna habitats.

Distribution

Vinous-breasted Mynas are native to parts of Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and southern China. They inhabit a range of lowland habitats, from open woodlands to cultivated areas.

These birds show a preference for human-modified landscapes, thriving in urban parks, gardens, and agricultural areas. They are non-migratory and maintain their territories year-round.

These birds have been successfully introduced to Singapore and Israel, which is expanding well around Tel Aviv.

Elevation Range

Up to 1,500 meters

Climate zones

Tropical, Subtropical

Distribution Map

This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Vinous-breasted Myna. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.

A few things to keep in mind:

Birds might not be everywhere in the coloured areas, for example, they may be present around the coast of that country
Where birds live can change with seasons and available food
This map is quite simple - it doesn't show exact locations

We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you:

More detailed maps for bigger countries, including state and region
How birds move around during different seasons