Tristram's Starling
NameTristram's Starling
Common NameTristram's Starling
Scientific NameOnychognathus tristramii
FamilySturnidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)120
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black body plumage with a contrasting grey head and upper breast, which often appears scaly. The most striking feature is a bright rufous-orange patch on the primary flight feathers, highly visible in flight and sometimes at rest. The bill and legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of rich, fluty whistles, often melodious, interspersed with harsher chattering notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Middle East, found in Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and parts of the Sinai Peninsula, typically in rocky desert and mountainous regions.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black body with grey head and upper breast, Bright rufous-orange patch on primary flight feathers, Dark bill and legs, Found in arid, rocky habitats
Description
This medium-sized starling is characterized by its glossy black plumage, grey head and upper breast, and a distinctive rufous-orange patch on its primary flight feathers. It is a social bird, often seen in rocky, arid environments where it forages for fruits and insects.
