Purple-headed Starling

The Purple-headed starling, scientifically known as Hylopsar purpureiceps, is a captivating species of starling belonging to the family Sturnidae. It is also referred to as the Purple-headed glossy-starling, a name that highlights its lustrous plumage.

Identification Tips

This bird can be identified by its striking purple-hued head, which contrasts with the rest of its body. The specific coloration and sheen of its feathers are characteristic identifiers within its native range.

Habitat

The Purple-headed starling is known to inhabit a range of environments across several African countries. It thrives in regions where it can find suitable nesting and feeding opportunities.

Distribution

The distribution of the Purple-headed starling spans across a swath of the African continent. It can be found in countries such as Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Guinea, Malawi, Nigeria, and Uganda.

Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the Purple-headed starling is currently classified as Least Concern. This suggests that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population that would warrant a higher level of concern.