Superb Starling

Spreo Superbus

Scientific Name

Superb Starling:  
Spreo Superbus

Distribution and Habitat

Geographic Range

Superb Starlings are found in East Africa, including Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.

Natural Habitat

Superb Starlings prefer dry habitats with abundant thorny scrub trees, dry woodlands, grasslands and suburban areas.

Physical Characteristics

  • Superb Starlings are the most colorful of the Starling family. They are 7-8 inches long with a 14-16 inch wingspan. Genders are similar with black faces and body colors of turquoise, blue, rust-orange and purple-blue. Their wings have metallic black spotted or broken wing bars. Their bills and feet are black. The white eyes have dark irises that stand out brightly. The average lifespan in the wild is 3 years. Juveniles have a duller appearance.

Quick Facts

  1. Superb Starlings are gregarious, loud birds.

  2. Superb Starlings are monogamous.

Exhibit

Gorilla House

Conservation Status

Least Concern: The Superb Starling is common or abundant and is likely to survive in the wild.

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Diet

Omnivore

Superb Starlings eat insects, seeds, fruits and vegetables.