Aplonis santovestris
The Mountain Starling, *Aplonis santovestris*, is a captivating member of the Sturnidae family, renowned for its glossy, dark plumage and restricted montane habitat. Measuring approximately 19-21 centimeters in length, this medium-sized passerine boasts iridescent black feathers that shimmer with subtle bluish-green or purplish sheens, especially on its upperparts. A striking feature and key field mark is its bright pale yellow or whitish eye, which contrasts sharply with its dark head, compl...
This species exclusively inhabits moist montane forests and cloud forests, thriving at elevations typically ranging from 600 to 1800 meters on its native island.
Primarily frugivorous, its diet consists largely of various forest fruits and berries, supplemented by a significant intake of insects gleaned from foliage and bark.
The Mountain Starling is primarily arboreal and diurnal, spending its days foraging actively within the canopy and sub-canopy layers of its dense forest habitat. It is often observed singly or in pairs, though small family groups or loose flocks may form during non-breeding periods, possibly conv...
The Mountain Starling (*Aplonis santovestris*) has an exceptionally restricted geographic distribution, being strictly endemic to the island of Espíritu Santo within the nation of Vanuatu in the South Pacific. Its entire population is confined to the montane forests of this single island, primari...
Near Threatened
- The Mountain Starling is endemic to a single island, Espíritu Santo in Vanuatu, making it one of the most range-restricted starling species globally. - Its striking pale yellow or whitish eyes provide a sharp contrast against its otherwise glossy, dark plumage, serving as a key identification m...