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The Greater Blue-eared Starling is a dazzling, iridescent African bird known for its glossy blue-green feathers, distinct blue ear patch, and bright eyes, found in savannas and woodlands, feeding on fruits and insects, and forming large flocks with unique "squee-ar" calls, often nesting in tree cavities.
Appearance & Identification
Color: Brilliant, metallic blue-green with purple-blue on the belly and a distinctive glossy blue ear-patch.
Eyes: Bright yellow, orange, or red, creating a striking contrast.
Size: About 22 cm (8.6 inches) long, with a short tail.
Juveniles: Duller with more brown, developing adult gloss and eye color as they mature.
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Habitat & Behavior
Range: Common in Sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia and South Africa, preferring open woodlands and savannas.
Social: Highly gregarious, forming large flocks of hundreds, especially at fruiting trees.
Diet: Omnivorous, eating fruits, insects, nectar, and grains, often foraging on the ground.
Calls: Known for a variety of musical and grating sounds, with a characteristic nasal "squee-ar" call.
Nesting & Conservation
Nesting: Uses tree cavities, either natural or excavated by other birds like woodpeckers.
Status: Considered "Least Concern" with a stable population, according to IUCN data.
