The short-tailed starling is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is found in Indonesia and the Philippines.
Region
Wallacea and southern Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs in Indonesia (notably Sulawesi and nearby island groups such as Banggai and Sula) and in parts of the southern Philippines. It inhabits primary and secondary lowland and hill forests, forest edges, and wooded plantations. The species commonly forages in the canopy, visiting fruiting trees and mixed-species flocks. It tolerates some habitat disturbance but remains most frequent where patches of mature trees persist. In some areas it ventures into village groves and gardens near forest.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The short-tailed starling is a compact, glossy starling of forest canopies, often moving in small, noisy parties between fruiting trees. It adapts reasonably well to disturbed habitats and edges, provided scattered tall trees remain. Like many starlings, it nests in cavities, including natural tree holes. Its quick, direct flight and noticeably short tail help separate it from similar glossy starlings.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flights between trees
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, sometimes joining mixed frugivore aggregations at fruiting trees. Nests in cavities such as natural tree holes; pairs defend the immediate nest area. Displays include wing-flicking and chases through the canopy during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Produces a varied series of sharp chatters, whistles, and metallic notes. Calls are brisk and conversational, often given in bursts as flocks move between trees.
Plumage
Compact, glossy starling with smooth, sleek plumage and a distinctly short tail; gloss shows greenish to purplish sheen in good light.
Diet
Takes a wide variety of small fruits and berries, including figs, and supplements its diet with insects and other arthropods. Forages by gleaning in the canopy and by making short sallies to snatch prey. Will visit cultivated fruit trees and edges where native and planted species fruit. Young are typically fed soft fruits and insects.
Preferred Environment
Most frequently feeds high in the canopy of mature forest and at edges with tall fruiting trees. Also uses secondary growth, plantations, and village groves that retain large trees.
