The black-collared starling is a lesser-known species of starling in the family Sturnidae. Its plumage is black and white, with a black collar. It is found in southern China and most of mainland Southeast Asia, and has been introduced to Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore. Its habitats include grassland, dry forest and human settlements. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed it as being of least concern.
Region
Southeast Asia and southern China
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern China through much of mainland Southeast Asia, with introduced populations in parts of Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore. Prefers open and lightly wooded habitats such as grasslands, scrub, agricultural land, and village edges. Frequently uses urban parks, gardens, and roadsides, showing high tolerance of human activity. It often forages on the ground in short grass or disturbed soils and uses scattered trees for perching and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
This bold, black-and-white starling is easily recognized by its neat black collar and bright yellow facial skin. It thrives in human-modified landscapes, often foraging in parks, fields, and villages. Pairs are noisy and conspicuous during the breeding season, and small flocks gather outside of it. By consuming insect pests, it can be beneficial around farms and gardens.
At a zoo in Miami
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy groups; larger flocks form outside the breeding season. Nests are bulky structures placed in trees or tall shrubs, sometimes near human dwellings. Both sexes participate in nest building and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal repertoire includes loud whistles, nasal squawks, and chattering notes. Often calls from prominent perches, with pairs exchanging noisy phrases.
