Acridotheres cristatellus formosanus

(Hartert, 1912)

Vernacular names
English : Crested myna
French : Martin huppé

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Passeriformes
Family : Sturnidae
Notes : 2 other subspecies known.

Identification
The species can grow to 27.5 cm in length for a weight of 140 g. Plumage mostly black, black crest above bill, with white patch on flight feathers. Bill ivory-white, yellow eyes. This subspecies is smaller, green tinge on crown and back.

Range and habitat
This subspecies is endemic to Taiwan. Species found in South and east China, Vietnam, Laos and Taiwan. Lives in lowlands in open countries, including plantations and gardens in cities.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species is fairly common to abundant within its large range and has been successfully introduced in many countries. Considered as a crop pest.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation
Taipei Zoo (Taiwan), Green World Ecological Farm (Taiwan), Fonghuanggu Bird Park (Taiwan)

 

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