Aplonis metallica
The Metallic Starling, *Aplonis metallica*, is a striking and highly social passerine bird, instantly recognizable by its dazzling iridescent plumage that shimmers with shades of green, purple, and bronze, giving it a scaled appearance. Measuring approximately 21-25 cm in length, including its distinctive long, pointed, and graduated tail, this species boasts bright red eyes that contrast sharply with its dark body. It belongs to the Sturnidae family, placing it among the true starlings, with...
Found primarily in tropical and subtropical lowland forests, woodlands, forest edges, savannas, and increasingly, in suburban gardens and plantations.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide range of fruits, especially figs and berries, supplemented with insects (beetles, ants) and occasionally nectar.
Metallic Starlings are highly gregarious and diurnal, forming large, noisy flocks that can number in the hundreds, especially outside the breeding season. They are known for spectacular communal roosts, often in prominent dead trees, palms, or even urban structures, where they gather at dusk. For...
The Metallic Starling has an extensive distribution across the Australasian region. Its primary range encompasses New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, and the Solomon Islands, where populations are largely resident. In Australia, it is found along the northeastern coast of Queensland, extending ...
Least Concern
- The Metallic Starling's common and scientific names (metallica) refer to its spectacular iridescent plumage, which shifts in color from green to purple to bronze depending on the light. - Its bright red eyes are a distinctive and striking field mark, making it easily identifiable even from a di...