BLACK-COLLARED STARLING
Sturnus nigricollis
DESCRIPTION
The Black-collared Starling (Sturnus nigricollis) is a medium-sized bird characterized by its striking black collar and bright yellow eye. Its plumage is predominantly brown with a lighter underbelly, and it has a distinctive long tail. This species is known for its vocalizations, often producing a variety of whistles and calls, and is commonly found in open habitats where it forages for food.
FUN FACTS
- The Black-collared Starling is known for its impressive vocal mimicry, often imitating other bird species and even human-made sounds
- This ability makes them popular among birdwatchers and in aviculture
- | These birds are highly adaptable and can thrive in urban environments, often seen foraging in parks and gardens
- Their social nature allows them to easily adjust to living near humans, making them a common sight in many areas
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight80-100 g
Average Length20-25 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuregroup — they are often found in flocks, especially when foraging.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- This species inhabits open woodlands, grasslands, and urban areas. It prefers habitats with scattered trees and shrubs for nesting and foraging.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland, Urban
- Native Range
- The Black-collared Starling is native to parts of East Africa, particularly in countries like Kenya and Tanzania.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda
- Diet
- The Black-collared Starling primarily feeds on insects, fruits, and seeds. It is known to forage on the ground and in trees, often in flocks.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, fruits, seeds
- Social Structure
- group — they are often found in flocks, especially when foraging.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
LC
80-100 g
Weight
20-25 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Brown body with a distinctive black collar and yellow eye.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, with no major declines reported.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and urbanization poses a threat to the Black-collared Starling. However, it is currently not facing significant threats.
- Predators
- Snakes, birds of prey, and domestic cats.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often use their vocalizations to warn others of potential threats and can engage in mobbing behavior against predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon