brilliantly iridescent-green in good light (Zoo; 2008-10-21)


Emerald Starling
Lamprotornis iris

Native Range: Africa

Notes: a small iridescent starling that inhabits wooded and open savannas of West Africa; cup-shaped nest is built in a tree cavity.

dorsal view; shiny green upperparts including tail (Zoo; 2008-10-21)
duller-colored in poor light; purplish belly (Zoo; 2008-10-21)

purplish ear patch; slightly decurved bill (Zoo; 2008-10-21)
purple ear patch extends onto side of neck (Zoo; 2008-10-21)