Spodiopsar sericeus
The Red-billed Starling (*Spodiopsar sericeus*) is a striking member of the Sturnidae family, renowned for its distinctive appearance. This medium-sized starling measures approximately 22-26 cm in length and weighs between 69-90 grams. Its most defining field marks are the bright, almost coral-red bill and legs, contrasting sharply with its pale creamy-white or yellow eyes. The plumage is generally a soft grey to buffy-grey on the head and body, which transitions to glossy blackish-green on t...
Found in open woodlands, cultivated areas, farmlands, and urban environments such as parks and gardens. It typically occurs from lowlands up to elevations of about 1500 meters.
Omnivorous, primarily consuming invertebrates such as insects, earthworms, and molluscs gleaned from the ground. Their diet is supplemented with various fruits, berries, and seeds, particularly during autumn and winter.
Diurnal in activity, Red-billed Starlings are highly social birds, especially outside the breeding season when they form large, sometimes massive, communal roosts, often mixed with other starling species. Their primary foraging strategy involves walking or running on the ground, probing soft soil...
The Red-billed Starling exhibits a distinctly East Asian distribution. Its primary breeding range encompasses central, eastern, and northeastern China, extending from Sichuan eastwards to the coast and north to Heilongjiang, as well as throughout North and South Korea. During the non-breeding sea...
Least Concern
- The Red-billed Starling's striking red bill can appear duller, more orange, or even blackish, especially in juveniles or during the non-breeding season. - Like many starlings, they are known for their ability to mimic the calls of other bird species, adding complexity to their varied vocalizati...