METALLIC STARLING
Aplonis metallica
DESCRIPTION
The Metallic Starling is a striking bird known for its iridescent plumage that can appear in shades of green, blue, and purple. It is a medium-sized starling that is often found in flocks, exhibiting social behavior.
FUN FACTS
- Metallic Starlings are known for their vibrant colors that can change with the angle of light | They are excellent mimics and can imitate various sounds | These birds play a crucial role in seed dispersal in their habitats
QUICK INFO
LifespanUp to 10 years in the wild.
Average Weight100-150 g
Average Length25-30 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuregroup — they are often found in flocks that can number in the hundreds.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonVaries by region, typically during the wet season.
- Habitat
- These birds inhabit tropical forests, woodlands, and urban areas. They are often found in areas with abundant fruiting trees.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Woodland
- Native Range
- The Metallic Starling is native to the islands of the southwestern Pacific, including parts of Australia, New Guinea, and various islands in the region.
- Continent
- Australia, Oceania
- Countries
- Australia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia
- Diet
- Metallic Starlings primarily feed on fruits, particularly figs, and also consume insects. They are known to forage in trees and are adept at catching flying insects.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- Fruits, insects
- Social Structure
- group — they are often found in flocks that can number in the hundreds.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 50-200
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
100-150 g
Weight
25-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Iridescent green and blue plumage with a darker head.
- Lifespan
- Up to 10 years in the wild.
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Varies by region, typically during the wet season.
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 deforestation and urbanization poses a threat to their populations.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, snakes
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often rely on their flocking behavior to evade predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon