The striated starling is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is endemic to New Caledonia.
Region
Melanesia (Southwest Pacific)
Typical Environment
Occurs across New Caledonia’s main island (Grande Terre) and nearby islands, including the Loyalty Islands and Isle of Pines. It uses primary and secondary evergreen forests, maquis shrublands, and coconut groves. The species readily visits orchards, village gardens, and plantations where fruit is abundant. It tolerates some habitat disturbance and edges, often foraging along forest margins and in mixed-species flocks.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The striated starling is endemic to New Caledonia, where it occupies forests, gardens, and plantations and plays an important role as a seed disperser. It adapts well to human-modified habitats and is often seen around fruiting trees. Several island subspecies show subtle differences in size and streaking. Despite its restricted range, it is not considered globally threatened.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, sometimes joining mixed-species groups at fruiting trees. Nests are typically placed in tree cavities, palm crowns, or other holes. Both parents participate in rearing young, and loose colony nesting may occur where sites are abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of whistles, chatters, and squeaky notes delivered from perches high in the canopy. Calls are lively and contact-oriented, often intensifying around fruiting trees and during the breeding season.
