Species Profile
Cape Starling
Lamprotornis nitens
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
2–5 years
Length
25–28 cm
Weight
80–100 g
Wingspan
40–45 cm
Migration
Resident
Also known as: Cape Glossy Starling
Think you've spotted a Cape Starling?
Upload a photo and our AI will confirm it instantly
Confirm with a PhotoGallery
Appearance
The Cape Starling is a medium-sized bird with striking iridescent plumage. Its feathers shimmer with a metallic blue-green sheen, often appearing purple in certain light conditions. The body is sleek and compact, with a relatively long tail.
Adults have bright yellow eyes that contrast sharply with their dark plumage. Juveniles are duller, with a more brownish tint and darker eyes, gradually developing adult colouration as they mature.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Iridescent
- Secondary
- Purple
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Black
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Cape Starlings are native to southern Africa and found in countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. They inhabit a variety of woodland habitats, including savanna, open bush, and riverine forests.
These adaptable birds have also successfully colonised urban and suburban areas, often seen in parks, gardens, and agricultural lands. Their distribution remains relatively stable throughout the year, with no significant seasonal movements.
Distribution
Diet
Cape Starlings are omnivorous, with a diet of fruits, insects, and small invertebrates. They often forage on the ground, probing the soil with their beaks.
These birds are also known to follow large mammals, feeding on insects disturbed by their movement.
Behaviour
Cape Starlings are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks. They have a distinctive undulating flight pattern and are known for their agile movements on the ground.
These birds are vocal and frequently engage in communal roosting, creating impressive aerial displays before settling for the night.
Calls & Sounds
Cape Starlings are known for their diverse vocal repertoire. Their calls include a variety of whistles, warbles, and chattering sounds.
They often mimic other bird species and even make mechanical noises. A common call is a high-pitched 'wee-wee-wee' or a melodious 'tswee-tswee-tswee'.
Nesting & Breeding
Cape Starlings typically breed during the warmer months, from September to March. They form monogamous pairs and often return to the same nesting sites year after year.
Nests are built in tree cavities, rock crevices, or man-made structures. The female lays 2-5 pale blue eggs with brown speckles. Both parents participate in nest building and incubation.
The incubation period lasts about 13-15 days, with chicks fledging after approximately 22-28 days. Parents continue to feed the young for several weeks after they leave the nest.
Conservation
The Cape Starling is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Its adaptability to human-modified environments and wide distribution contribute to its stable population.
However, like many birds, it faces challenges from habitat loss and climate change, particularly in more arid regions of its range.
Elevation
Up to 2,000 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Main predators of Cape Starlings include birds of prey such as hawks and falcons, as well as snakes and small mammals that can access their nests.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for large flocks in open woodland areas and near human settlements
- Listen for their varied vocalisations, including whistles and chattering calls
- Observe their iridescent plumage, which changes colour depending on the angle of light
- Check fruiting trees, where they often gather to feed
Did You Know?
- Cape Starlings can form mixed-species flocks with other starling species.
- Their iridescent feathers are not pigmented but create colour through light refraction.
- These birds play a role in seed dispersal, contributing to ecosystem health.
Community Photos
Be the first to share a photo of the Cape Starling
Upload a PhotoSimilar Species
Identify Any Bird Instantly
- Upload a photo from your phone or camera
- Get an instant AI identification
- Ask follow-up questions about the bird
Monthly Birds in Your Area
- Personalised for your location
- Seasonal tips and garden advice
- Updated every month with new species