Lincoln Park Zoo

Common name: Bali mynah
Latin Name: Leucopsar rothschildi

Class: Birds
Order:    Passeriformes

Description
Bali mynahs have striking white plumage with black wing tips and bright blue coloration around the eyes. The species can approach ten inches in height.

Range
Indonesia

Status
Critically endangered. Bali mynahs are nearly extinct in the wild because poachers collect them for the illegal pet trade, where they are valued for their striking plumage and beautiful songs. Because of this poaching, Bali mynahs are found almost exclusively in zoos. Scientists at Lincoln Park Zoo help conserve Bali mynahs by keeping the studbook for the species. Studbooks contain the family trees of every individual animal in the zoo population. By pairing animals that are distantly related, zoo scientists can help ensure that offspring are genetically healthy. Lincoln Park Zoo participates in the Bali Mynah Species Survival Plan®, a shared conservation effort by zoos throughout the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Habitat
Open forests and savanna

Niche
The Bali mynah’s diet includes fruit, seeds, worms and insects.

Life History
The Bali mynah often gathers in groups to better locate food and watch out for predators. During breeding season, males attract females by calling loudly and bobbing up and down. The birds nest in tree cavities, with the female laying and incubating two–three eggs. Both males and females bring food to the nests for chicks after hatching.

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