BLACK-WINGED STARLING
Acridotheres melanopterus
DESCRIPTION
The Black-winged Starling (Acridotheres melanopterus) is a medium-sized bird characterized by its striking black wings and tail, contrasting with its pale body. This species exhibits a robust build and a distinctive yellow eye, which adds to its visual appeal. Known for its vocalizations, the Black-winged Starling is often found in open habitats where it forages for food and interacts with other birds.
FUN FACTS
- The Black-winged Starling is known for its ability to mimic sounds, including human-made noises, which makes it a fascinating species for birdwatchers
- | This species plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by helping to control insect populations and dispersing seeds, contributing to the health of its habitat
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight100-150 g
Average Length24-26 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are often found in pairs or small groups, displaying social behaviors during foraging and nesting.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- This species inhabits a variety of open environments, including grasslands, agricultural fields, and urban areas. It prefers habitats with ample food sources and suitable nesting sites.
- Biomes
- Grassland, Savanna, Urban
- Native Range
- The Black-winged Starling is native to parts of Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries like Thailand, Myanmar, and Malaysia.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia
- Diet
- The Black-winged Starling primarily feeds on insects, fruits, and seeds. It is known to forage on the ground and in trees, utilizing its strong bill to extract food.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, fruits, seeds
- Social Structure
- They are often found in pairs or small groups, displaying social behaviors during foraging and nesting.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
100-150 g
Weight
24-26 cm
Length
- Coloration
- The body is mostly pale with striking black wings and a black tail, complemented by a 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 immediate threats to its survival.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural expansion poses a threat to the Black-winged Starling. However, it adapts well to human-altered environments.
- Predators
- Snakes, birds of prey, and domestic cats are known to prey on Black-winged Starlings.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often use their agility and flight to evade predators, and may also engage in mobbing behavior when threatened.
- Compatible Animals
- Other starlings, small parrots, finches
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon