Violet-backed Starling
NameViolet-backed Starling
Common NameViolet-backed Starling
Scientific NameCinnyricinclus leucogaster
FamilySturnidae
Wingspan (cm)29.5
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)49.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males have brilliant iridescent violet-purple plumage on their head, back, wings, and tail, sharply contrasting with pure white underparts. They have a dark bill and legs, and a yellow eye. Females are duller, with brown upperparts streaked with dark brown, and white underparts heavily streaked with brown. Juveniles resemble females.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a variety of soft, musical whistles, chattering notes, and occasional harsh calls. They often produce a series of chirps and trills, sometimes described as a soft warble.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia, and south through much of central and southern Africa to South Africa. They are intra-African migrants, moving seasonally in response to fruit availability.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent violet-purple upperparts (males), Pure white underparts (males), Dark bill and legs, Yellow eye (males), Strong sexual dimorphism (females duller and streaked)
Description
The Violet-backed Starling is a small, strikingly colored starling native to sub-Saharan Africa. Males are easily identified by their iridescent violet upperparts contrasting with pure white underparts. These birds are arboreal, often found in woodlands and savannas, where they primarily feed on fruits and insects.
