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About the Violet backed Starling
The violet-backed starling is a small, highly distinctive African starling in which males and females differ strongly in appearance. The male has a glossy violet or purple back with a dark head and wings, while the female is predominantly brown and streaked. It is primarily associated with woodland, savanna and forest edges and feeds on fruit, berries and insects. It is often encountered high in trees, especially where fruiting trees are available.
How to identify the Violet backed Starling
Small, sleek starling with a short tail and pointed bill. Males have a glossy violet-blue to purple head, back and breast contrasting sharply with a white belly and undertail. Females are predominantly brownish-grey above with a pale underside.
Did you know?
The species name leucogaster means “white-bellied”, referring to the striking white underside that contrasts with the male’s iridescent dark plumage.
Also known as: Plum-coloured Starling, Starling, Persglansspreeu
Parks where you can see the Violet backed Starling
Recent Violet backed Starling sightings
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