Aplonis brunneicapillus
The White-eyed Starling (Aplonis brunneicapillus) is a striking, large passerine bird, measuring approximately 28-30 cm in length, characterized by its uniformly glossy, deep black plumage. While its scientific name alludes to a 'brown cap,' adults are predominantly iridescent black, reflecting blues and purples in good light. Its most distinctive and captivating feature is its brilliant, contrasting white to pale blue-white irises, which stand out dramatically against its dark head. The bill...
Primarily inhabiting undisturbed lowland and montane rainforests, the White-eyed Starling is typically found from sea level up to at least 1,500 meters, though more commonly below 1,000 meters. It occasionally ventures into forest edges or slightly disturbed areas but relies heavily on mature for...
Primarily frugivorous, its diet consists of a wide variety of native fruits gleaned from the forest canopy, supplemented with some insects captured through gleaning.
Active throughout the day, the White-eyed Starling is an arboreal species, predominantly foraging within the canopy and mid-story of its forest habitat. It employs an agile gleaning technique, plucking fruits directly from branches, and is often observed moving in small, loose flocks, sometimes m...
The White-eyed Starling is an insular endemic, strictly confined to just two islands in the Melanesian archipelago: Bougainville Island, which is part of Papua New Guinea, and Choiseul Island, belonging to the Solomon Islands. It is a resident species, with no known migratory movements outside it...
Endangered
- The 'brunneicapillus' in its scientific name translates to 'brown-haired' or 'brown-capped', a feature that is often obscured by the adult's glossy black plumage. - Its dazzling white or pale blue-white eyes are its most striking feature and serve as an unmistakable field mark. - This starling ...