The Tasman starling was described in 1836 by John Gould as a species which occurred on both Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island. In 1928 Australian ornithologist Gregory Mathews recognized that the plumage of the race from Lord Howe Island was much browner and more greyish than the plumage of the Norfolk Island race and split the species into two forms, the Norfolk starling, and the Lord Howe starling. Both subspecies are now extinct, thus so the species.
Region
Tasman Sea Islands
Typical Environment
Historically restricted to Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island, where it occupied subtropical forests, palm groves, and forest margins. It favored mature evergreen forest with abundant tree hollows for nesting. Birds foraged from the canopy to the ground, especially along edges and in secondary growth. Around settlements it visited orchards and cultivated trees for fruit. After the introduction of rats, its range rapidly contracted until extinction.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 875 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Tasman starling inhabited Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island, with the Lord Howe birds notably browner and greyer than the glossier Norfolk form. Introduced rats and habitat changes drove both island populations to extinction in the early 20th century. It nested in tree cavities and was often seen near forest edges and groves. The species’ loss is a classic example of island bird vulnerability to invasive predators.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, forming loose flocks outside the breeding season. Nesting occurred in natural tree cavities and occasionally in holes in palm trunks. Both parents likely participated in rearing the young, as in other Aplonis starlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied mix of whistles, rattles, and chatters delivered from perches within the canopy. Calls could be harsh when alarmed, while softer warbling phrases were used in social contexts.
Plumage
Sooty-brown to blackish starling with a slight metallic sheen; Norfolk birds were darker and glossier while Lord Howe birds appeared browner and greyer with duller gloss. Feathers often showed pale fringes giving a subtly scaled look on the body. Tail fairly short and square-ended.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore feeding on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark. It also consumed a variety of fruits and berries from native and introduced plants. Occasional nectar feeding and scavenging near human habitation were likely. Seasonal availability of fruit influenced foraging choices.
Preferred Environment
Foraged in mid-canopy to canopy within subtropical forest and palm groves, and also at forest edges and secondary growth. Around settlements it visited orchards, gardens, and fruiting shrubs.
