Burchell's starling or Burchell's glossy-starling is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. The monogamous and presumably sedentary species is native to dry and mesic woodlands and savannah of southern Africa. The name of this bird commemorates the English naturalist William John Burchell.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occupies dry and mesic woodland, thornveld, and savanna across the Kalahari and adjacent regions. Especially associated with Acacia and mopane woodlands, as well as riverine trees and farm edges. It tolerates lightly settled areas and often visits waterholes and cattle posts. Avoids dense closed forest and very high mountains, favoring open tree-scattered habitats. Frequently occurs in family parties within stable home ranges.
Altitude Range
200–1700 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Burchell's starling, also called Burchell's glossy-starling, is a monogamous and largely sedentary starling of southern Africa named after the naturalist William John Burchell. Its iridescent plumage shifts from blue-green to purplish tones depending on the light. It commonly forages in pairs or small family groups and readily uses natural cavities or old barbet and woodpecker holes for nesting.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
direct flight with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs, family groups, or small parties, sometimes gathering loosely at water sources or good feeding sites. Monogamous pairs nest in natural cavities or old woodpecker/barbet holes, lining them with plant fibers. Both parents participate in feeding the young, and family groups may stay together for some time after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of whistles, metallic chimes, and chatters, often delivered from exposed perches. Calls are rich and ringing, with scolding notes during alarm and softer contact chatter within family groups.
Plumage
Uniform glossy, sleek plumage with strong iridescence that can appear blue-green to purplish depending on angle and light.
Diet
Takes a broad diet of insects (beetles, termites, caterpillars, and grasshoppers), spiders, and other small invertebrates, along with fruits and berries when available. Occasionally samples nectar and will opportunistically take small vertebrate prey or scraps. Often forages on the ground beneath trees or within foliage, gleaning and sallying to catch disturbed insects.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along woodland edges, thornveld, and riparian trees, as well as around livestock posts and waterholes. Frequently exploits recently burned areas and follows large mammals to pick off flushed insects.
