Metallic Starling

The Metallic Starling is a small, glossy black bird with red eyes and a striking iridescent sheen that reflects green and purple hues in sunlight. Its body is sleek and compact, with a short tail and pointed wings, giving it an aerodynamic profile.

Both males and females share similar plumage, with adults displaying the characteristic metallic sheen. Juveniles have a duller, sooty-brown appearance before developing their adult plumage.

Metallic Starlings are vocal birds with a diverse repertoire. Their calls include a variety of chattering, whistling, and warbling sounds. In large flocks, they create a cacophony of metallic 'tink-tink' notes and high-pitched whistles.

During the breeding season, males produce more melodious warbling songs to attract mates.

• Look for large, noisy flocks in rainforest canopies
• Listen for their distinctive chattering and whistling calls
• Observe their acrobatic flight patterns during dawn and dusk
• Search for their communal nesting sites in tall trees
• In Australia, check mangrove areas and coastal forests

Metallic Starlings are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, especially figs. They supplement their diet with insects, particularly during breeding season.

These birds play a crucial role in seed dispersal within their forest habitats, contributing to ecosystem health.

Breeding occurs during the wet season, typically from October to March. Metallic Starlings form monogamous pairs within their larger colonies. They construct large, globular nests made of twigs, leaves, and vines, often suspended from the outer branches of tall trees.

Females typically lay 2-3 pale blue eggs with brown speckles. Both parents share incubation duties, which last about 14 days. The eggs are oval-shaped and have a smooth, slightly glossy surface.

Nestlings are altricial and remain in the nest for approximately 18-21 days before fledging. Parents continue to feed and care for the young for several weeks after they leave the nest.

Metallic Starlings are highly social birds, often seen in large, noisy flocks. They exhibit acrobatic flight patterns, swooping and wheeling in tight formations.

These birds are known for their communal nesting habits, with multiple pairs building nests in close proximity, sometimes forming large breeding colonies.

While the Metallic Starling is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces localised threats from habitat loss due to deforestation.

Conservation efforts focus on protecting rainforest habitats and monitoring population trends, particularly in areas where their range overlaps with human development.