The Pohnpei starling, also known as Pohnpei mountain starling or Ponape mountain starling, is an extremely rare or possibly extinct bird from the family of starlings (Sturnidae). It is endemic to the island of Pohnpei in the Pacific Ocean. It was called "sie" by the Pohnpei islanders. It was named after the Austrian ornithologist August von Pelzeln (1825–1891).
Region
Micronesia, Caroline Islands
Typical Environment
Historically confined to Pohnpei’s montane rainforests and cloud forests, favoring mature native forest with dense canopy and fruiting trees. It likely foraged in the mid- to upper canopy and occasionally at forest edges. Human encroachment and invasive species pressures would have reduced suitable habitat. No confirmed recent sightings suggest any remaining individuals, if extant, would persist only in remote interior forests.
Altitude Range
300–780 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Pohnpei mountain starling, it is endemic to the island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia and may already be extinct. Locally known as "sie," it inhabited high, wet forests and was likely vulnerable to habitat loss and introduced predators such as rats. It is listed as Critically Endangered (possibly extinct) by conservation authorities. The species was named in honor of Austrian ornithologist August von Pelzeln.
Temperament
wary and reclusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Historically observed as solitary or in small parties within dense montane forest. Like other Aplonis, it likely nested in tree cavities or natural holes and foraged methodically through the canopy. Breeding biology remains poorly documented.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
unknown
Plumage
Mostly dark, starling-like with a subtly glossy sheen; likely uniform above and below with minimal patterning.
Diet
An omnivorous forager that probably fed on a mix of native fruits, berries, and arthropods, similar to related Pacific island starlings. It may have supplemented its diet with nectar and small invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark. Seasonal availability of fruit would have influenced its movements within forest tracts.
Preferred Environment
Mid- to upper canopy of mature montane rainforest and cloud forest, especially where fruiting trees are abundant. Occasionally along forest edges and gaps where insects and fruits are accessible.
