4032. PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS: The Common Mynah in Phuket

13 Aug 2025: 
As a photographer, I am very interested in spotting the Common Mynah in Phuket as it is rare in Singapore and Sentosa. The Javan Mynah is the dominant species as it is more adaptable - feeding on garbage and on leftover food in hawker centres and breeding more. However, in 2025, I noted that there is a drastic decline in the Javan Mynah as it is considered a pest.    

 

 

 

The Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) is a bird native to Singapore, but its population has declined due to competition with the introduced Javan Myna. While the Common Myna is still found in Singapore, it is less common than the Javan Myna. 

Key Differences between Common Myna and Javan Myna:

• Body Color:

  Common Mynas have a brownish body, while Javan Mynas are predominantly black.
• Eye Patch:

  Common Mynas have a distinctive yellow patch of skin around their eyes, which Javan Mynas lack. 

Status in Singapore:

• The Common Myna is a native species that has been introduced to many other parts of the world, where it is considered invasive. 
• In Singapore, it's considered a common resident, but its numbers have decreased due to competition from the introduced Javan Myna. 
• The Javan Myna, introduced to Singapore, is now the more dominant and widespread species. 
• The Javan Myna is often the bird associated with complaints about noise and nuisance in Singapore. 

Where to find Common Mynas:

• Common Mynas can still be found in Singapore, particularly in coastal areas and places with less human activity, according to Birds of Singapore. 
• They are also found in open woodlands and around human habitation.

 

 

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