Aplonis zelandica
The Rusty-winged Starling (Aplonis zelandica) is a captivating passerine endemic to the Santa Cruz Islands of Vanuatu and Temotu Province in the Solomon Islands. Measuring approximately 18-20 cm in length, adults are predominantly glossy black or dark iridescent green with a distinctive purplish sheen across their head and body, making them subtly striking. Its most diagnostic field mark, giving it its common name, is the prominent rusty-rufous coloration on its primary and outer secondary fl...
Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, the Rusty-winged Starling prefers the canopy and forest edges, occasionally venturing into degraded woodlands or plantations from sea level up to modest elevations of about 500 meters.
The diet of the Rusty-winged Starling is omnivorous, consisting primarily of various tropical fruits, such as figs and berries, supplemented with a significant proportion of insects gleaned from foliage and branches.
Rusty-winged Starlings are typically observed singly or in small, active groups, often foraging high in the forest canopy. They engage in arboreal foraging, gleaning insects from foliage and bark, and plucking fruits directly from branches, showcasing agile movements among the leaves. Their daily...
The Rusty-winged Starling is an island endemic with a highly restricted geographic distribution, confined to the Santa Cruz Islands within Vanuatu and the Temotu Province of the Solomon Islands. Its breeding range encompasses moist lowland forests across islands such as Nendo (Temotu Province) an...
Near Threatened
- The Rusty-winged Starling gets its name from the distinctive rusty-rufous coloration on its primary and outer secondary flight feathers. - This vibrant wing coloration is unique among starlings found in its restricted South Pacific range. - It is endemic to a small number of islands, specifical...