The pied starling or African pied starling is a bird endemic to South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini. It is common in most of its range, but largely absent from the arid northwest and the eastern lowlands of South Africa. It is found in open habitats such as grassland, karoo scrub, thornbush and agricultural land, and often associates with farm animals.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Endemic to South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini, it is widespread except in the arid northwest and the humid eastern lowlands. It favors open country including grasslands, karoo scrub, thornveld, pastures, and agricultural lands. The species frequently occurs around settlements and farmsteads and is common along roadsides and in towns. It avoids dense forests and true desert but uses scattered trees, fence lines, and buildings for perching and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Often foraging around livestock, the pied starling takes insects stirred up by grazing animals and will pick at dung for beetles and larvae. It readily uses man‑made structures for nesting cavities and roosts, adapting well to farmland and towns. Flocks are noisy and conspicuous, and the species can join mixed groups with other starlings.
A juvenile at Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Pretoria
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small groups outside the breeding season, forming larger flocks at feeding sites and communal roosts. Nests are placed in cavities in banks, cliffs, walls, bridges, or buildings, often in loose colonies. Pairs are attentive at the nest, and both adults participate in provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of whistles, chatters, and squeaky notes delivered from prominent perches. Calls include harsh scolding chatter in flocks, interspersed with clearer, musical phrases and occasional mimicry.
