Acridotheres albocinctus
The Black-collared Starling, often colloquially known as the Collared Myna, is a striking member of the Sturnidae family, renowned for its bold black-and-white plumage. Measuring approximately 28-30 cm (11-12 inches) in length, it exhibits a predominantly white body, a distinct black head, and a prominent broad black collar extending around its neck. A unique bright yellow bare skin patch encircles its eye, contrasting sharply with its black head. Its wings are black with a noticeable white p...
This adaptable species inhabits a variety of open environments, including grasslands, cultivated fields, open woodlands, and particularly thrives in urban and suburban areas. It is found from lowlands up to elevations of about 1500 meters, favoring areas with scattered trees for nesting and roost...
An omnivorous species, the Black-collared Starling primarily feeds on a wide range of insects, including grasshoppers, beetles, and larvae. Its diet is supplemented with various fruits, seeds, and discarded human food items, typically foraged from the ground.
The Black-collared Starling is a diurnal bird, frequently observed foraging on the ground in small, often noisy, groups. Outside the breeding season, they are highly gregarious, forming large communal roosts in trees or reedbeds, sometimes alongside other starling species. Their foraging strategy...
The Black-collared Starling is native to a broad swathe of Southeast Asia, with its primary breeding range spanning southern China, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, extending into northeastern parts of India. It has also been introduced and established breeding populations in sever...
Least Concern
- The Black-collared Starling is instantly recognizable by its striking black head and broad black 'collar' against an otherwise white body, making it one of the most distinctive starlings. - It is highly adaptable and thrives in close proximity to human settlements, frequently seen in parks, gar...