Description Here we have a Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis), also known as the Common Mynah under the shade of a Eucalyptus tree by the Boardwalk in Cairns, Queensland Australia. These are a medium sized bird of the Starling family and a bout the same size as the European Starling. They are disconcertingly clever and will watch you with knowing eyes and I clearly remember, as a child, people having these as Pets un the UK and that some could say a few mimicked words. These are pretty tame when near to cities as the get used to humans easily, so I did not need much bush craft to get close enough for this shot, but it was still a thrill to see one of these birds I saw caged as a child living free. I personally love them, but they are hated by most Australians as a pest and known as 'Flying Rats'!. The shadow has nade for a fairly richly coloured shot with the bright yellow beak, seeming to shine out, and the dappled light on the multicoloured leaves on the ground around the bird make an interesting diversion
James Bennett (Mr Bennett Kent), Sissinghurst, Kent, England Member Since July 2014 Artist Statement Fine Art Wildlife and Bird photography from the UK and my travels to America and Australia.
Macro and Extreme Macro photography of insects and plants are also represented, showing the fascinating and strangely beautiful world normally invisible to the naked eye.