Violet-Barked Starling

Violet - Backed Starling

Description

The male breeding colour is a spectacular iridescent amethyst or plum colour. The female is heavily streaked below. It is a common breeding migrant to Botswana from October to April.

Voice

The call is a single high-pitched whistle by the male.

Behaviour and habitat

The birds nest in natural tree holes and fence posts. They are occasionally parasitized by Greater and Lesser Honeyguides. Diet consists of mainly fruit and insects.