Miná Crestado

The crested minnow is a species of passerine bird of the family Sturnidae. Its plumage is jet black, with flashing white wing patches. It also has a small bristly crest that rises above the base of its yellow bill. This species, originally from southern Asia, has been introduced into Argentina and is found sporadically in several provinces of the country.

Longevity

5-10 years

Weight

100 gr

Length

25 cm

LC (Least Concern)
LC (Preocupación Menor) Completo

The species is relatively secure in the wild and faces no immediate risk of extinction.

Reproduction

They build nests in tree cavities or buildings.

The female lays 3 to 5 eggs and both parents participate in the incubation and care of the chicks.

Behaviour

They are social birds that live in large groups.

They are excellent sound imitators and can copy other bird calls and urban noises.

Threats

Habitat loss due to urbanisation and competition with other invasive species are threats to the crested minnow.

In some areas, it is considered an invasive species and may adversely affect native birds.

Feeding

They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of insects, fruits, seeds and human waste.

Their diet includes beetles, ants, grasshoppers, fruits and small vertebrates.

Distribution

Mapa Geográfico
VU (Vulnerable)
VU (Vulnerable) Completo

It is at high risk of extinction in the medium term.

NT (Near Threatened)
NT (Casi Amenazado) Completo

It is not yet at risk, but could be soon if conditions worsen.

ALL

Not Used

EX (Extinct)
EX (Extinto) Completo

There are no longer any living individuals of the species.

EW (Extinct in the wild)
EW (Extinto en estado silvestre) Completo

Only specimens survive in captivity or in scientific collections.

EN (Endangered)
EN (En Peligro) Completo

It has a very high risk of disappearing in the wild if conservation measures are not taken.

CR (Critically Endangered)
CR (En Peligro Crítico) Completo

It faces an extremely high risk of extinction in the near future.