Aplonis corvina
The Kosrae Starling (Aplonis corvina) was a sleek, medium-sized passerine, reaching approximately 30 cm (12 inches) in length with a robust build. Its plumage was entirely glossy black, often described as possessing a deep, iridescent blue-purple sheen when observed in favorable light, particularly on its back and wings. Distinctive field marks included its strong, slightly decurved bill and a relatively long tail, characteristics shared among many Aplonis starlings. Taxonomically, it belonge...
This species was endemic to the island of Kosrae (formerly Kusaie) in Micronesia, inhabiting dense lowland and montane tropical forests.
The Kosrae Starling was primarily frugivorous, feeding on various tropical fruits, and likely supplemented its diet with insects gleaned from foliage and bark.
Due to its early extinction, detailed behavioral observations of the Kosrae Starling are regrettably scant, largely inferred from related Aplonis species. It was likely a diurnal bird, active during daylight hours, probably roosting communally in trees within the dense forest canopy. Foraging str...
The Kosrae Starling was an island endemic, found exclusively on Kosrae (formerly Kusaie), a small volcanic island in the Federated States of Micronesia, located in the Pacific Ocean. Its entire historical range was confined to the dense forests of this single island. There was no known migration,...
Extinct
- The Kosrae Starling was first described in 1828 from specimens collected during the Russian explorer F.P. von Lütke's circumnavigation voyage. - It is one of the most enigmatic extinct birds, with very few specimens (less than a dozen) ever collected, making detailed study challenging. - Despit...