The long-tailed glossy starling is a member of the starling family of birds. It is a resident breeder in tropical Africa from Senegal east to Sudan.
Region
West and Northeast Africa
Typical Environment
Found from Senegal and Gambia east through the Sahel and Sudanian savannas to Sudan. It prefers open woodland, Acacia parkland, thorn scrub, and edges of cultivation. The species readily uses village edges, gardens, and agroforestry landscapes. It also frequents gallery forests along rivers where tall trees provide nesting cavities. Human-modified habitats with scattered trees are commonly used.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This striking starling is famed for its exceptionally long, flowing tail and mirror-like iridescent plumage that shifts from green to blue and purple in sunlight. It often associates with human settlements and livestock, taking advantage of insects they disturb. Pairs defend nesting cavities and perform tail-fanning displays during courtship. Its pale yellow eyes stand out against the glossy body, aiding quick identification.
Long-tailed glossy starling
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
direct flight with short, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, and forms larger flocks outside the breeding season. Nests in tree cavities or holes in large branches, often reusing sites year to year. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Communal roosting is common in tall trees near water or villages.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal and varied, combining clear metallic whistles with rattles and harsh chatters. Often delivers phrases from exposed perches and may include mimicry of other species. Calls carry well over open savanna.
Plumage
Highly glossy, iridescent plumage with a smooth, sleek texture; long, graduated tail.
Diet
Eats a wide range of insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and termites, along with spiders and other small invertebrates. Also consumes fruits and berries from savanna trees and shrubs. Will take nectar and occasionally small vertebrates or scraps near human habitation. Forages both on the ground and in trees, opportunistically exploiting disturbed prey around livestock.
Preferred Environment
Open savanna and Acacia parkland with scattered trees provide ideal foraging and lookout perches. Frequently feeds along field edges, village margins, and riverine woodland. Often accompanies grazing animals to snatch insects they flush.
