Brahminy Starling

Sturnia pagodarum

Family: Rhabdornis, Starlings, and Mynas · Status: Vagrant · Size: 20 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Breeds from eastern Afghanistan and Himalayan foothills east to Nepal, south through Pakistan and peninsular India; partially migratory in the north, with non-breeding birds reaching Sri Lanka.

Identification

Cinnamon-rufous starling glossy black crown which forms a long crest, sandy-grey upperparts, pale iris, and bicoloured bill (yellow at tip, blue at base). Female resembles male but with shorter crest. Juvenile is duller.

Habitat

Occurs in open areas, scrub, cultivated land, and parks.

Behaviour

Forages on the ground and in fruiting or flowering trees; roosts communally.