Lamprotornis superbus
Conservation Status:
Least Concern
Range:
Northeast Africa
Habitat:
Open scrub and woodlands
The population trend of the Superb Starling is unknown according to the IUCN. However, there is a saying in Kenya that the only way to avoid seeing a Superb Starling is to walk around with your eyes closed! They form cooperative breeding groups during the breeding season. Throughout the rest of the year, they gather in flocks of thousands of birds to roost. They are sociable birds and adapt well to human settlements.
Their metallic coloration is a result of structural coloration. Protein ridges on their feathers interfere with white light, creating their distinctive color and sheen.
They construct spherical nests made of grasses and twigs, which can be found in bushes, trees of medium height, and even rock crevices. Females lay 3 to 4 dark blue eggs, which are then incubated for 12 days. Both the male and female share the responsibility of caring for the offspring. Previous offspring may also contribute by collecting nest materials and assisting in feeding the young, a behavior known as cooperative breeding.