Definition

Noun: * Indian grackle: A species of starling (Gracula religiosa), native to Asia, characterized by glossy black plumage and a notable ability to mimic human speech and other sounds. It is often kept in captivity and trained.

Usage and Examples

• The Indian grackle, also commonly called the hill myna, is a popular talking bird.
• In the forest, we heard the distinct, varied calls of an Indian grackle.
• He owns an Indian grackle that can perfectly imitate his laugh.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in ornithology and aviculture to specifically refer to this mimicry-capable starling species, distinguishing it from other grackles found in the Americas.
• In literature or descriptive writing, "Indian grackle" can be used to evoke a specific Asian tropical or subtropical setting.

Variants and Related Words

• Hill myna (n): The most common alternative name for the same bird species.
• Gracula religiosa (n): The scientific (Latin) name for the species.
• Myna / Mynah (n): A broader category of starlings to which the Indian grackle belongs.
• Grackle (n): A general term for certain New World blackbirds and, in this specific case, this Asiatic starling.

Synonyms

• Hill myna
• Talking myna

Notes on Meaning

• The "Indian" in the name refers to the Indian subcontinent, part of its native range, which also extends across Southeast Asia.
• It is crucial not to confuse the Indian grackle with New World grackles (genus ), which are a different type of blackbird and not known for mimicry.

Noun

1. glossy black Asiatic starling often taught to mimic speech