Cinnyricinclus leucogaster

(Boddaert, 1783)

Vernacular names
English : Violet-backed starling
French : Étourneau améthyste

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Passeriformes
Family : Sturnidae
Notes : 3 subspecies known.

Identification
The species can reach 16 cm in length for a weight of 56 g. Male unmistakable with yellow eyes, white belly and rest of plumage iridescent metallic purple. Female brown with light edges to feathers. Brest white with brown spotting.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia, south to South Africa, west to Angola and Namibia. Small population in Arabian peninsula. Lives in open and riverine woodlands, agricultural areas, to 3000 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species has a large range and seems to be widespread and abundant. No imminent threats are recorded.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America

Observation

 

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