Found in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and Tanzania, these colorful birds prefer dry woodland and savanna habitats.
The life of a golden-breasted starling
Golden-breasted starlings can grow up to 14 inches long and weigh about 1.5 to two ounces. They live 12 to 14 years in the wild, and up to 20 years in human care.
They are highly social, gathering in family flocks of up to 12 and cooperating in nest building and raising young together. They make nests in abandoned tree holes created by woodpeckers. After mating, females lay three to five eggs that hatch within two weeks. The family group works together to provide food for the young chicks.
Young golden-breasted starlings begin life with soft, pale feathers. As they become adults, they gain the vibrant blue, green and golden colors that make them so eye-catching.
Golden-breasted starlings eat flies and other insects. Their primary food is termites, using sharp beaks to break open and dig up termite mounds. Their predators include larger birds of prey.
Golden-breasted starlings at the zoo
Located in the Vollum Aviary.
