Golden-breasted starling

Physical features

• These birds are 9-11 inches long. Males and females look alike.

• They are named for the yellow coloration of their breast, belly, and upper tail.

• They have longer tails than many other species of starlings.

• The fairly long bill of the gold-breasted starling may be rapidly flicked to open termite tunnels for feeding.

Diet: Carnivore

• Wild – Primarily insects, although snails, crabs, spiders, and small vertebrates may also be taken; This makes golden-breasted starlings unique since most species of starlings eat fruit as well as insects.

• Zoo – Insects, fruit, and softbill diet (a manufactured diet specially formulated for fruit- and insect-eating birds)

Reproduction

• Golden-breasted starlings generally roost in tree cavities, often those which have been abandoned by other birds. 

• Nests are constructed from straw, leaves, or roots.

• A clutch consists of 3 eggs.

• Incubation: 14 days

• Fledging: 3 weeks

• Group members of the parents have been observed helping with the construction of the nest. They’ve also been seen bringing food to the mother while she incubates the eggs, as well as assisting in the feeding of chicks.

Interpretive Information

• Golden-breasted starlings generally live in family groups of 3 to 12 individuals. These groups may mix with groups of other species when feeding.

• They are relatively vocal, with a variety of whistling and chattering calls. Vocalization is heard most often during flight.  Both males and females sing in this species.

Updated March 2008