The fiery-browed starling or fiery-browed myna is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is monotypic within the genus Enodes. Distinguished by a reddish-orange stripe over the eye, it is endemic to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, mainly living in humid highland forest.
Region
Wallacea (Sulawesi, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid submontane to montane evergreen forests on Sulawesi, favoring mature, mossy forest. It uses forest edges, ridgelines, and secondary growth near intact tracts, provided canopy structure remains. Most activity is in the mid to upper canopy, where it forages among fruiting trees. It tolerates light disturbance but depends on continuous forest for core habitat.
Altitude Range
600–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the fiery-browed myna, it is the sole member of the genus Enodes and is easily recognized by its bright orange-red eyebrow stripe. It frequents the middle to upper canopy of Sulawesi’s montane forests and often joins mixed-species flocks. Its presence can indicate relatively intact highland forest.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small noisy parties and often associates with mixed-species canopy flocks. Nests are presumed to be in tree cavities like many starlings, with both adults participating in care. Breeding behavior is concentrated in the drier part of the year, though timing may vary locally.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear whistles, chattering notes, and rasping calls, often delivered from canopy perches. Contact calls are sharp and carry through the forest, aiding flock cohesion.
Plumage
Dusky brown to olive-brown overall with slightly paler underparts and a subtle sheen on the wings. The head shows a contrasting dark mask crossed by a vivid reddish-orange supercilium. Tail and wings appear darker, giving a two-toned look in good light.
Diet
Takes a mix of small fruits and berries along with insects and other arthropods. Forages by gleaning from foliage and branches and by probing clusters of leaves and epiphytes. Frequently visits fruiting trees and may hawk short distances for flushed insects. Diet composition shifts with seasonal fruit availability.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the mid to upper canopy of humid montane forest, especially at fruiting trees along ridges and edges. Will use secondary growth adjacent to mature forest if canopy connectivity remains.
