Lamprotornis ornatus
The Principe Starling (Lamprotornis ornatus) is a captivating and strikingly beautiful passerine, endemic solely to the lush island of Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea. This medium-sized starling measures approximately 20-22 cm (8-9 inches) in length, adorned with a dazzling, highly iridescent plumage that shimmers with metallic greens, blues, purples, and bronzes, depending on the light and viewing angle. Its most distinctive field mark is its bright, piercing yellow eye, which stands out agai...
Primarily inhabits primary and secondary evergreen forest, including disturbed areas and forest edges, from sea level up to the highest elevations of Príncipe.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of native fruits, but also insectivorous, actively gleaning insects and other invertebrates from vegetation.
Principe Starlings are diurnal birds, typically active from dawn to dusk, often seen in pairs or small, loose groups foraging through the forest canopy and mid-story. Their foraging strategy involves actively gleaning insects from foliage and branches, as well as plucking fruits directly from tre...
The Principe Starling is an island endemic, found exclusively on Príncipe Island, one of the two main islands of São Tomé and Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Central Africa. Its distribution covers the entirety of Príncipe, inhabiting suitable forest habitats from sea level ...
Near Threatened
- The Principe Starling is one of only two bird species endemic to Príncipe Island, making it an incredibly special part of the island's biodiversity. - Its scientific name, 'ornatus,' literally means 'ornate,' a fitting description for its stunning, jewel-like plumage. - Unlike many starling spe...