The Greater Blue-Eared Starling is truly a sight to behold. This medium-sized bird boasts iridescent feathers that range from shades of blue to green, creating a stunning display of colors. The most striking feature is the contrasting royal blue to violet flanks that set it apart from other avian species. Its purple-blue belly and blue ear patch give it a unique look that catches the eye of any bird watcher. In addition to its captivating appearance, the Greater Blue-Eared Starling is known for its bright yellow-orange eyes, adding to its overall beauty.
This mesmerizing bird can be found in various parts of Africa, stretching from Senegal to Ethiopia and through eastern Africa to northeastern South Africa and Angola. It thrives in open woodland habitats, where it can find a diverse array of invertebrates, seeds, berries, and figs to feast upon. Although insects are its primary food source, this omnivorous bird is not picky and will enjoy a wide variety of foods.
When it comes to nesting, the Greater Blue-Eared Starling prefers tree cavities or abandoned nests of barbets and woodpeckers. The female lays a clutch of up to 3-5 eggs that are green-blue in color with purple spots, adding to the uniqueness of this species. The eggs are then carefully incubated for 13-14 days before hatching. Once the adorable fledglings are ready, they leave the nest after about 13-14 days, ready to explore the world.
Not only are these birds fascinating to watch, but they also exhibit unique behaviors that make them stand out among their avian peers. For instance, they can often be seen perching on livestock, skillfully capturing insects that are disturbed by these animals. Additionally, the starlings occasionally engage in a behavior known as “anting,” where they rub ants on their plumage. This helps to remove ectoparasites, benefiting both the bird and the livestock.
Despite its wide range, the Greater Blue-Eared Starling is still considered at least a threat on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is essential to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of this bird while also recognizing the importance of protecting it and its habitat.
In conclusion, the Greater Blue-Eared Starling is a fascinating bird that offers much to admire in terms of both appearance and behavior. Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to observe this bird in the wild and learn more about its captivating characteristics. Let us cherish this shiny blue-green gem and work together to ensure its continued presence and conservation for future generations to enjoy.
