Aplonis cinerascens
The Rarotonga Starling (Aplonis cinerascens) is a captivating, medium-sized passerine, growing to approximately 20-21 cm (7.9-8.3 inches) in length, and is a member of the diverse Sturnidae family. Its plumage is uniformly dark, sooty-grey, often appearing almost black in shadow, with slightly paler, ashier undertail coverts. A key identification feature, especially for a birder lucky enough to spot one, is its striking, pale yellowish-white eye, which stands out starkly against its dark head...
This starling exclusively inhabits the primary and mature secondary montane rainforests of Rarotonga, typically found at higher elevations (above 200m) in dense, undisturbed valleys and ridges.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide range of native forest fruits; it also supplements its diet with insects, particularly during the breeding season, foraging in the canopy and mid-story.
The Rarotonga Starling is a generally shy and reclusive bird, often observed singly or in pairs, rarely forming larger flocks outside of breeding season. They are diurnal, active from dawn to dusk, foraging primarily in the forest canopy and mid-story for fruits and insects. While detailed studie...
The Rarotonga Starling is an extreme island endemic, with its entire global population restricted solely to the volcanic island of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. Within Rarotonga, its range is further limited to the undisturbed interior montane rainforests, primarily found at elevations above 200...
Critically Endangered
- The Rarotonga Starling is one of the most geographically restricted bird species globally, found only on the single island of Rarotonga. - It is classified as Critically Endangered, indicating an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. - Its striking pale yellow eye, a hallmark of the sp...