Purple Starling

The Purple Starling, or Lamprotornis purpureus, also known as the Purple Glossy Starling, is a striking bird with a metallic sheen. Adults boast a resplendent purple head and body, complemented by glossy green wings. They are stocky birds, measuring 22–23 cm in length, and are easily identified by their short tails and distinctive yellow eyes. Both sexes appear similar, while the juveniles present a more subdued appearance with grey underparts and brown irises.

Identification Tips

When trying to identify the Purple Starling, look for the iridescent purple plumage and the contrasting glossy green wings. The bird's yellow eye is a key distinguishing feature. Juveniles can be recognized by their duller coloration, grey underparts, and brown eyes.

Habitat

The Purple Starling is commonly found in open woodlands and cultivated areas, where it thrives in the tropical climates of Africa.

Distribution

This species is a resident breeder across tropical Africa, with its range extending from Senegal and northern Zaire to Sudan and western Kenya.

Behaviour

The Purple Starling is known for its gregarious nature and can often be seen in noisy flocks. It communicates with a variety of squeaks and chattering sounds that are characteristic of starlings.

Breeding

Nesting in holes, the Purple Starling typically lays a clutch of two eggs. The details of its breeding habits, such as incubation period and fledging time, are consistent with those of many other starling species.

Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Purple Starling's diet consists of both fruit and insects, allowing it to take advantage of a wide range of food sources within its habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Purple Starling as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.