Poeoptera stuhlmanni
The Stuhlmann's Starling, Poeoptera stuhlmanni, is a striking medium-sized starling, typically measuring around 18-20 cm (7-8 inches) in length, excluding the potentially elongated tail feathers of the male. It boasts a spectacular glossy blue-black plumage, which shimmers with iridescent purples and greens under good light, especially on the head and back. A key field mark is the bright white patch visible on the primary feathers, often conspicuous in flight. Males of some populations posses...
Primarily inhabits humid montane and submontane evergreen forests, generally found at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 meters (3,300-8,200 feet).
Mainly frugivorous, feeding on a wide variety of forest fruits and berries, complemented by insects gleaned from foliage and bark.
Stuhlmann's Starlings are diurnal, actively foraging within the mid-to-upper canopy of dense forests and often forming communal roosts in dense foliage, particularly near abundant food sources. Their foraging strategy is predominantly arboreal, where they move with agility through branches to plu...
The Stuhlmann's Starling is a resident species found in a discontinuous band across East-Central Africa, closely tied to its preferred montane forest habitats. Its primary distribution extends from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, through Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, stretching eastward into...
Least Concern
- The male Stuhlmann's Starling can grow central tail feathers almost as long as its body, creating an exceptionally elegant, 'pin-tailed' silhouette. - Its dazzling blue-black plumage isn't painted pigment but rather structural coloration, reflecting light to create its iridescent sheen. - Despi...