The violet-backed starling, also known as the plum-coloured starling or amethyst starling, or Ndambamukula in the Venda language, is a relatively small species (17 cm) of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is the only member of the genus Cinnyricinclus. This strongly sexually dimorphic species is found widely in the woodlands and savannah forest edges of mainland sub-Saharan Africa. It is rarely seen on the ground, but instead found in trees and other locations away from the ground.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from West and Central Africa through East and parts of Southern Africa, favoring woodland, forest edge, gallery forest, and wooded savanna. Frequently visits fruiting trees in open forests, riparian strips, and cultivated areas such as orchards and gardens. It is predominantly arboreal, often foraging high in the canopy or at forest margins. Seasonal movements track rains and food availability, with local influxes when figs and other fruits ripen.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the plum-coloured or amethyst starling, it is strikingly sexually dimorphic: males shimmer violet-purple above with clean white underparts, while females are brown and heavily streaked. It is largely arboreal, seldom feeding on the ground, and often follows seasonal fruiting and insect emergences. Nests are typically placed in tree cavities, including old woodpecker holes, and both parents help feed the young.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it often forms small flocks or joins mixed-species groups at fruiting trees. During breeding it is typically in pairs, nesting in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes. Both sexes incubate and feed the young, with the male often displaying conspicuously from exposed perches.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Produces a series of thin, sweet whistles and soft warbles, interspersed with sharper contact notes. Vocalizations are varied but generally softer and more musical than many other starlings.
