“As the Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus) is Singapore’s most common avian species. It has become a pest for most and been termed ‘trash’ by birders and photographers alike. Its abundance, even in urban areas, resulted in much neglect and waned interest in the species.
“The Javan Myna is normally a black bird with limited white feathers. When in usual perching posture, the only whites that can be seen are small dashes on its folded wings and glimpses at the tip of its tail. I came across an unusual Javan Myna that may arouse some interest in my recent outing. This myna was probably leucistic as there are patches of white on its plumage. Whites could be seen around its face, back, nape, breast, and wings. Its eyes, bill and feet remained in the usual colour of yellow.
“At first, it was hidden from view; blocked by a White-Throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis). It was discovered only when the kingfisher took flight. The aberrant bird remained perched, one-footed, on a railing that was just a few steps further from where the kingfisher was. This happened to be along the same canal where I photographed a White-Throated Kingfisher dive bathing some time ago. I was not so lucky this time. The leucistic myna did not stay long for observation. It flew away after allowing just a few shots, and from quite a distance.”
Kwong Wai Chong
Singapore
28th June 2011
