The white-eyed starling is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is found in the Solomon Islands archipelago. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical swamps. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Solomon Islands archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, including swamp forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It favors tall, fruiting canopy trees and may visit village gardens and plantations when fruit is abundant. The species is primarily a lowland bird but can range into foothill forests. Habitat loss from logging reduces continuous forest tracts and isolates subpopulations.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-eyed starling is a canopy-dwelling starling notable for its striking pale iris that contrasts with its dark plumage. It is confined to the Solomon Islands archipelago, where logging and forest conversion threaten its habitat. It forages in small groups at fruiting trees and often mixes with other starlings.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks at fruiting trees. Nests in tree cavities or crevices, likely reusing suitable holes in large trunks. Pairs maintain small territories around nest sites within broader home ranges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mix of sharp chattering notes, whistles, and squeaky calls delivered from high perches. Vocalizations can be repetitive and are often used to keep contact within small groups.
Plumage
Glossy dark body with a slightly less glossy, dusky to brownish head; sleek, smooth-feathered appearance typical of starlings.
Diet
Omnivorous, feeding mainly on fruits and berries, including figs and other canopy fruit. Also takes insects and other invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark. Will opportunistically consume nectar and small vertebrates are not typical in the diet.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the forest canopy at fruiting trees and along forest edges. May descend to mid-levels in secondary growth and occasionally visits gardens and plantations when fruiting trees are present.
