Meves’s Starling
Lamprotornis mevesii
Mopane woodland. Iridescent purple-blue; long, graduated tail; dark eyes.
Starlings
LC
Not Endemic
Description
Common resident. Differs from other glossy starlings in combination of dark eyes and long, graduated and pointed tail; might be mistaken for a wood hoopoe given a brief view. Could only be confused with shorter-tailed and much heavier-bodied [Burchell’s Starling]. Immature similar, duller. Groups utter a chattering ‘trrreer-eeear…’. Usually in small flocks in well-developed woodland (especially mopane) with open ground.
Quick Facts
Size
30-34 cm - M
Names
A: Langstertglansspreeu
G: Meves-Glanzstar
Bird Family
A well-known family of frugivorous and insectivorous birds with strong, slightly decurved bills and strong legs. Many species form flocks, especially when roosting. Their calls are mainly various unmusical squeaks and squawks. Several species have adapted to town life and two have been introduced from other countries. Unless otherwise stated, the immatures resemble adults.
Distribution
Gallery
Behaviour
Breeding
Habitat
