Sturnornis albofrontatus
The White-faced Starling, *Sturnornis albofrontatus*, is a striking passerine bird endemic to the wet zone forests of Sri Lanka. This medium-sized starling, measuring approximately 19 cm (7.5 inches) in length, is instantly recognizable by its pure white forehead and face, which contrasts sharply with its otherwise glossy, iridescent blue-black or green-black body plumage. Its dark features are complemented by bright yellowish-orange irises and a stout black bill, making it an unmistakable sp...
Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist lowland and lower montane forests, forest edges, and mature plantations in the wet zone of Sri Lanka, typically ranging from sea level up to 1500 meters in elevation.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of native forest fruits and berries. Supplements its diet with insects, gleaning them from foliage and branches, and occasionally nectar.
White-faced Starlings are largely arboreal, spending most of their time in the mid to upper canopy of trees. They are active during the day, often observed foraging in small, cohesive groups of 3-7 individuals, sometimes joining mixed-species feeding flocks. Their foraging strategy involves glean...
The White-faced Starling is strictly endemic to Sri Lanka, where its distribution is confined primarily to the country's wet zone. This includes the southwestern lowlands and the adjacent lower montane regions, typically at elevations ranging from sea level up to approximately 1500 meters. Key st...
Near Threatened
- The White-faced Starling is a true island endemic, found only on Sri Lanka, making it a unique flagship species for the island's biodiversity. - It is the sole member of its genus, *Sturnornis*, highlighting its distinct evolutionary path within the starling family (Sturnidae). - Despite its st...