Ecology and breeding biology of Pied Myna (Sturnus contra) in agro-ecosystem of Punjab
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Date
2017
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Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
Abstract
Pied Myna (Sturnus contra) plays significant role as bio-control agent. It is mainly located in plains of Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and in the foothills up to 700 m above sea level. The present study on ecology and breeding biology of Pied Myna was undertaken from February 2016 to January 2017 in the fields of Punjab Agricultural University (30◦53’ 59.81 N and 75◦47’ 32.10 E). The study area was divided in four different sites i.e. site I - IV. The annual relative abundance of Pied Myna was highest (5.17%) at site IV followed by 4.41% at site I, 3.70% at site II and 2.42% at site III. Irrigated fields, harvested fields and ploughed fields were the most preferred foraging sites. Most preferred perching site was electrical wires followed by electrical poles, trees, buildings and least preferred was fencing wires. Maximum flock size of approximately 23 individuals was recorded roosting on electrical wires. A total 34 nests were recorded during study period. Most preferred nesting site was site I, due to easy availability of suitable nesting material, feeding and roosting habitats. Nests of Pied Myna were large, untidy and dome shaped with a lateral entry. The mean weight of nest (n=3) was 471.42±6.73 g. Eggs of Pied Myna were oval shaped and glossy blue. Dimensions of eggs were 26.36x19.55 mm and weighed 5.08±0.14 g. A total of 53-78 days were recorded to complete a breeding cycle i.e. from pair formation to flight of young ones. The level of all the sixteen heavy metals was found to be in normal range in the excreta of Pied Myna. It was concluded from the study that habitat preference of Pied Myna was directly proportional to the presence of feeding material, roosting places and nesting material available.
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