Abbott's Starling
NameAbbott's Starling
Common NameAbbott's Starling
Scientific NamePoeoptera femoralis
FamilySturnidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black plumage on the head, upperparts, and upper breast, sharply contrasting with a pure white lower breast and belly. The eyes are a distinctive bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of high-pitched, clear whistling notes, often delivered from a prominent perch within the forest canopy.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to a restricted range of montane forests in northeastern Tanzania and southeastern Kenya, primarily found on Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, and the Taita Hills.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black upperparts and pure white underparts, Bright yellow eyes, Small size for a starling, Found exclusively in high-altitude montane forests of East Africa
Description
The Abbott's Starling is a striking, medium-sized starling characterized by its contrasting black and white plumage. It is an arboreal species, typically found foraging for insects and fruits in the canopy of montane forests.
