Mynah Birds are beautiful, graceful animals that make for amazing and interesting pets. Native mainly to India, the Mynah Bird is actually considered sacred, and as been for the past 2000 years. They are very talkative and will often learn to mimic words that they hear and enjoy. Today, these birds can be seen in pet stores all around the world, being popular for their imitations using the same tones and clarity as people. Many different types of Mynah Birds can be found in the world, the most popular two being the Java Hill Mynah and the Greater Indian Hill Mynah.
In appearance, the Mynah Bird is considered one of the most beautiful living birds in the world. Their glossy black feathers can reflect the light and seem to change before your eyes. You can detect hints of purple, green and blue, which make for one gorgeous looking pet. When choosing a Mynah Bird from the pet store be sure that the bird's feathers are smooth and not ruffled; pay careful attention to their markings also. This will help ensure that you pick out a healthy bird.
When deciding if you wish to buy a Mynah Bird over a different type of bird make sure that you have the proper space to house the bird. In their natural habitat, the Mynah's tend to hop around from foot to foot and like to explore. If you are keeping a Mynah Bird you must buy a cage that is no less than 3 to 4 feet in length, 2 feed in depth, and 2 feet high. Remember that this is a minimum and the more space you give them, the happier they will be. Although, keep in mind that you should not give them too much space or they will feel too independent and will not bond with you as much. Another thing to have in the Mynah's cage is at least one perch. It is a good idea to have about 3 or 4 staggered within the cage, attached to the sides. They will hop from perch to perch and this will help ward off foot ailments and arthritis. Do not buy perches out of rope or any other material their feet and toenails can catch on. Toys are a very important part to their cage. Infant toys or cat toys are your best bet when buying from a pet store. Anything that can be taken apart is not a good idea! Mynah's tend to nap during the day so a permanent nesting box should be placed somewhere in the cage. But don't worry: although they nap during the day they will still sleep through the night.
Buying the proper food for your Mynah Bird is very important. In the wild, they tend to feed on figs, berries, seeds, shrubs and the occasional insects. In your own home you should stick to food that is low in iron because the Mynah Bird can be susceptible to Hemochromatosis, otherwise known as an iron storage disease. For this reason you should avoid avacados, rhubarb and apple seeds. Instead, feed the Mynah apples, bananas, pears and melons.
If you wish to purchase a Mynah Bird that will take it's cue on words to speak from you, buy a hand fed baby bird at about 6 weeks after hatching. This will guarantee a better bonding experience and the Mynah will grow to recognize you and your voice.
Mynah's make for great pets as they are somewhat low maintenance and very friendly. There is no doubt that if you purchase a Mynah, it will be a remarkable experience.