The Greater and Lesser Mino by George Edwards: Hill Mynas (Gracula Sp.)

The Greater and Lesser Mino by George Edwards: A Pair of Hill Mynas (Gracula sp.) The bird in the print titled "The Mino or Minor, Greater and Less," appears to depict a species from the Gracula genus, commonly known as the Hill Myna or Mynah bird. These birds are native to South and Southeast Asia and are famous for their glossy black feathers, striking bright yellow wattles around their eyes, and their ability to mimic human speech. : 1. Plumage: The birds in this print have a glossy, iridescent black or dark greenish sheen, typical of the Hill Mynas. They are shown in a naturalistic pose, perching on branches, which is characteristic of George Edwards' style of ornithological illustration. 2. Yellow Wattles: Both birds exhibit the characteristic bright yellow wattles behind the eyes, a distinctive feature of many Myna species, especially the *Gracula religiosa* (Common Hill Myna). This wattle pattern is unique to this species, making them easily identifiable. 3. Red and Yellow Beaks: One of the birds has a red-tipped beak, while the other’s beak is yellow with a slight orange tinge, again characteristic of Hill Mynas, where some variation in color exists. 4. Poses: The two birds are depicted in different stances, one perched upright, while the other is bending down, showing Edwards' emphasis on natural behavior and postures. Historical and Ornithological Context: Hill Mynas, especially *Gracula religiosa*, were highly sought after in Europe during the 18th century, due to their exotic appearance and ability to mimic human voices. George Edwards, known for introducing European audiences to exotic species from around the world, often worked from live specimens housed in menageries or private collections. His detailed and vibrant prints helped familiarize Europeans with birds they would otherwise never encounter in the wild. The Mino or Minor birds, as shown in this print, might refer to different species or sizes within the *Gracula* genus, showcasing both the "greater" (larger) and "less" (smaller) species, or simply variations in size among the same species. The Hill Myna was particularly notable for its intelligence and vocal abilities, and it remains a popular bird in aviculture even today. This print is another remarkable example of Edwards' contribution to ornithology, portraying not only the beauty of the species but also the keen observational skills that made his work so scientifically valuable.