Javan Myna and Noni fruits

I used to have two Noni trees (Morinda citrifolia) in my garden, planted probably by birds LINK. Now only one is left. The fruits regularly attract Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus), Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopacea) and Yellow-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus goiavier) LINK. The tree also attracts birds, butterflies and bees LINK.

Of late the Javan Mynas have been monopolising the fruits, pecking off small pieces from a Noni fruit on the tree (see video below).

Note that there are two fruits where the myna is feeding. The lower one has started to ripen and the bird is pecking at the base of the fruit. After all, ripening takes place from the base up to the tip of the fruit.

When the fruit is fully ripened, it falls onto the road below. Passing cars will flatten it and other mynas will feed from it. Usually family groups will be attracted to these fallen fruits and the adults will show by example that this is food. They will feed on it and at regular intervals peck off pieces and feed them to the fledglings. The latter take time to learn and eventually will feed by themselves. The presence of fledglings is announced by their loud monosyllable begging cries (video above).

YC Wee
Singapore
September 2015