Gracupica nigricollis
The Black-collared Starling, *Gracupica nigricollis*, is an unmistakable and charismatic member of the Sturnidae family, renowned for its striking plumage and confident demeanor. This medium-sized starling measures approximately 26-30 cm in length and weighs 100-150 grams, characterized by a pristine white body and head, dramatically contrasted by a broad, glossy black collar and dark wings and tail. A prominent field mark is the large patch of bright yellow bare skin around the eye, extendin...
Found primarily in open country, cultivated land, urban parks, and villages, often near water or livestock, from lowlands up to 1500 meters.
Omnivorous, their diet consists mainly of large invertebrates like grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars, supplemented with fruits, berries, seeds, small reptiles, and human food scraps, primarily acquired through ground foraging.
Black-collared Starlings are highly diurnal and exceptionally social birds, frequently forming large, conspicuous flocks outside the breeding season that often converge into massive communal roosts at dusk. Foraging predominantly on the ground, they employ a 'gaping' technique to probe for invert...
The Black-collared Starling is a widespread resident species across much of Southeast Asia and southern China. Its native breeding and year-round range extends throughout southern China (including Yunnan, Guangxi, Guangdong, and Hainan Island), Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and sout...
Least Concern
- The Black-collared Starling is known for its remarkable ability to mimic the calls of other bird species, integrating them into its complex vocal repertoire. - They are highly adaptable and have become a common sight in urban and suburban environments across their native range, thriving alongsi...