Aplonis insularis
The Rennell Starling (Aplonis insularis) is a captivating, medium-sized passerine, strictly endemic to Rennell Island in the Solomon Islands. Adults measure approximately 19-21 cm in length and weigh around 50-60 grams, characterized by a striking, entirely glossy black plumage that often exhibits iridescent purple or green sheens under certain light conditions. Its most distinctive field mark is a bright, fiery red iris that contrasts sharply with its dark feathers, along with a stout, black...
The Rennell Starling primarily inhabits lowland and upland primary evergreen forest, showing a preference for intact, mature forest ecosystems. It can also be found at forest edges and in taller secondary growth, typically from sea level up to the highest elevations of Rennell Island.
The Rennell Starling is predominantly frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of fruits and berries found in the forest canopy. It also supplements its diet with insects and small invertebrates, which it gleans from foliage and branches.
This diurnal species is typically observed foraging actively throughout the day within the canopy and subcanopy layers of its forest habitat, often singly or in small, loose groups. While specific detailed studies on its territorial behavior are limited, other *Aplonis* species are known to defen...
The Rennell Starling's entire global distribution is confined to Rennell Island, the southernmost island in the Solomon Islands archipelago. It is a non-migratory, resident species, meaning it spends its entire life cycle within this single island habitat. There are no known breeding or wintering...
Near Threatened
- The Rennell Starling is found nowhere else on Earth, being strictly endemic to the single, isolated Rennell Island in the Solomon Islands. - Its striking red eyes are a key identification feature, contrasting sharply with its glossy black plumage. - It belongs to the *Aplonis* genus, a group of...