The bronze-tailed starling or bronze-tailed glossy-starling is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is native to the Sudan and adjacent areas.
Region
Sahel and Sudanian Savanna (West and Central Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs across open savannas, parkland, and dry woodland, especially in the Sahel and Sudanian zones. It frequents village edges, cultivated fields, and areas with scattered trees. The species avoids dense closed-canopy forests but readily uses riparian trees and shelterbelts. Often found near water sources and in grazing areas where insects are flushed by livestock. It adapts well to human-modified landscapes.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This glossy starling shows striking iridescence that shifts from green to blue and purple depending on the light, with a distinctive bronze sheen on the tail. It often associates with livestock and benefits farmers by consuming agricultural pests. Nesting is typically in tree cavities, including holes made by other species, and small colonies may form in favorable areas.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small flocks or loose associations, sometimes mixing with other glossy starlings. Nests in cavities in trees, buildings, or old woodpecker holes, and may nest semi-colonially. Both sexes participate in nest defense, and birds are vigilant around feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include a varied mix of whistles, chattering notes, and harsh rasping calls. Males may deliver more complex sequences during displays, often from prominent perches.
Plumage
Glossy, iridescent plumage with metallic greens and blues shifting to purplish tones; tail shows a distinct bronze sheen.
Diet
Feeds on a wide range of insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and termites, along with spiders and other invertebrates. Also consumes fruits, berries, and occasionally nectar. Will take scraps and small items around human settlements. Often follows grazing animals to catch flushed insects.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the ground and in low to mid-level branches in open savanna, farmland, and village edges. Frequently visits fruiting trees and cultivated fields, especially after rains when insect activity is high.
