Aplonis magna
The Long-tailed Starling (Aplonis magna) is a striking passerine bird, endemic to the remote Biak and Numfor Islands off the coast of New Guinea in Indonesia. As its name suggests, this species is distinguished by its remarkably elongated, graduated tail, which can constitute nearly half of its total body length, ranging from 35 to 42 cm. Its plumage is uniformly glossy black, exhibiting a magnificent iridescent purplish-green sheen that shimmers in the light, particularly on the upperparts. ...
Primarily inhabits tropical lowland and foothill forests, including primary, secondary, and disturbed forest edges, as well as adjacent clearings and plantations. Typically found at elevations up to 700-800 meters above sea level.
Omnivorous, with a diet primarily consisting of various fruits, especially figs, complemented by insects and other invertebrates. Forages mostly within the canopy of trees.
Long-tailed Starlings are typically observed in pairs or small family groups, though they may occasionally join larger mixed-species foraging flocks in the canopy. They are diurnal, spending their days actively gleaning insects and plucking fruits from the forest canopy, often moving with deliber...
The Long-tailed Starling is strictly endemic to a highly restricted geographical area: the Biak and Numfor Islands, which are part of the Schouten Islands group situated off the northern coast of Papua, Indonesia. This species is entirely resident within this small archipelago and does not undert...
Least Concern
- The Long-tailed Starling's tail can be up to 20 cm long, making it disproportionately long for its body size among starlings. - It is an island endemic, found only on Biak and Numfor Islands, making it a unique and vulnerable species. - Despite its restricted range, its population is currently ...