LESSER BLUE-EARED STARLING
Lamprotornis chloropterus
DESCRIPTION
The Lesser Blue-eared Starling, or Lamprotornis chloropterus, is a striking bird known for its vibrant plumage, which features a glossy blue-green body and distinctive blue ear patches. This species exhibits a range of vocalizations, often communicating in a series of whistles and chattering calls. Ecologically, it plays a role in seed dispersal and is often found in open woodlands and savannas, where it forages for food.
FUN FACTS
- The Lesser Blue-eared Starling is known for its intelligence and adaptability, often seen foraging alongside larger animals like cattle, which disturb the ground and expose insects
- Additionally, these birds have a unique ability to mimic the calls of other bird species, making them quite popular among birdwatchers and in aviculture
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight100-150 g
Average Length22-25 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are often found in small groups or flocks, especially when foraging.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- This species inhabits open woodlands, savannas, and grasslands, often near water sources. It prefers areas with scattered trees and shrubs for nesting and foraging.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland
- Native Range
- The Lesser Blue-eared Starling is native to parts of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the eastern and southern regions.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia
- Diet
- The Lesser Blue-eared Starling primarily feeds on insects, fruits, and seeds. It is known to forage on the ground and in trees, often in the company of other birds.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, fruits, seeds
- Social Structure
- They are often found in small groups or flocks, especially when foraging.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
100-150 g
Weight
22-25 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Glossy blue-green body with blue ear patches and a contrasting yellow eye.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- 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
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and urbanization poses a threat to their populations. However, they are currently not facing significant threats.
- Predators
- Snakes, birds of prey, and domestic cats are known predators of the Lesser Blue-eared Starling.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often rely on their agility and flocking behavior to evade predators.
- Compatible Animals
- Other starlings, small passerines
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon