NUTRITION AND FOOD OF INDIAN MYNA (Acridotheres tristis)

Abstract

Common myna are ground feeder, omnivorous, feeds on insects, arachnids, crustaceans, small reptiles and it forages on the ground among grass insects especially the grasshoppers (Genus Acridotheres) so known as grasshopper hunter. A balanced diet helps in physical development, strength to fight diseases and the power to complete the tasks of daily life. It is essential for all living beings to have nutrients in their food so that they get sufficient amount of nutrients, the main source of which is a balanced diet. It is very important for all birds to get a balanced diet containing nutrients required for their life cycle, otherwise they may become unwell and their lives may be in danger. The bird's food should mainly contain adequate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water. The Indian myna forages during the day time in agricultural fields to ensure nutrients are present in its food source. This bird feeds mainly on insects, small invertebrates, seeds and grains to obtain nutriants. Indian myna is a primarily omnivorous and show foraging (to search for food) on the ground, grasshopper, small insects, butterflies, larvae, feeds on fruits, grains, domestic edable waste, some orchard fruits, papaya, vegetables, seedlings of wheat and standing cereal crops etc.