Purple-headed Starling
Hylopsar purpureiceps
A small glossy starling often found in the canopy of fruiting trees in groups of varying sizes, sometimes with other species of starling. Note the glossy green-blue body, the dark purplish head and throat that can appear black at a distance, and the short tail. Distinguished from other glossy starlings by its short tail and relatively unicolored appearance. Calls include a whistled “twa!” or “wheet!” as well as more starling-like chattering “reer” or “heer” notes.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Hylopsar purpureiceps
- Authority
- (Verreaux, J & Verreaux, É, 1851)
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Sturnidae
- Genus
- Hylopsar
Range and habitat
It is found in Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Guinea, Malawi, Nigeria, and Uganda.
- Migration
- Resident species
Conservation
- Population trend
- declining
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
Straw-tailed Whydah
Vidua fischeri
A nest parasite that lays its eggs in the nests of Purple Grenadiers. As with other whydahs, breeding males are spectacular, whereas non-breeding males and females are drab. Breeding males are mostly black, with golden-buff coloring on the cap, the belly, and the elongated central tail feathers. Non-breeding males and females have a brownish back, a golden-buff head, and a red bill. Found in rather dry savanna and cultivated areas. Non-breeding male and female can be identified by their red bill and their almost unmarked plain buff head. Not very vocal, but does imitate Purple Grenadier, and gives a quick jumble of high-pitched whistled notes.
Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
Large, mostly white raptor that cruises over lakes, rivers, and coastal waterways in search of fish. Impressively widespread: found on every continent except Antarctica. Mostly white head and underparts; dark brown back. In flight, holds wings with a kink in the wrist (shaped like an "M"). Stick nests are conspicuous on top of channel markers, utility poles and high platforms near water. Often seen plunging feet-first into water from high in the air to grab fish.
Mountain Peltops
Peltops montanus
A medium-sized bird of montane forest edge and clearings. Distinctive plumage. Mainly black, bright red above and below the base of the tail; and white marks on the cheek and back. Perches in tall trees, sallying for flying insects. Very similar to Lowland Peltops, but Mountain is found at higher elevations and has larger white cheeks. Voice, a high-pitch, downward trill, sounding rather like a cricket.
Start Your Bird Watching Journey
Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.