Socotra Starling
Onychognathus frater
Large, glossy black starling with a strong bill. The tail is moderately long, and squared off. There are large red panels in the wing, which are conspicuous in flight. Unlike most “red-winged” starlings, sexes are alike. Often found around cliffs and other rocky areas, where it roosts and nests. Feeds in dry woodland. Gives scratchy calls and more musical whistles. Similar to male Somali Starling, but has a much shorter and less pointed tail. Easily distinguished from the gray-hooded female Somali Starling.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Onychognathus frater
- Authority
- (Sclater, PL & Hartlaub, 1881)
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Sturnidae
- Genus
- Onychognathus
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Conservation
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Distribution
Other Birds
Chinese Hwamei
Garrulax canorus
A medium-sized thrushlike bird of dense forests and undergrowth. The reddish brown coloration and white spectacles are distinctive. Usually skulks in dense vegetation, but may sing from an exposed perch or forage out in the open during dawn and dusk. Usually observed singly or in pairs. The song is loud, long, and varied, involving mimicry of other birds, whistles, and harsh notes that are often repeated. Introduced to Taiwan, Japan, and the Hawaiian Islands.
Chucao Tapaculo
Scelorchilus rubecula
Fairly common to common in native temperate forest, adjacent shrubbery, wooded patches, and thickets along rivers and streams, especially with bamboo. Loud ringing song is commonly heard, but calling birds can be elusive. At other times can be confiding, walking out at close range as if curious, usually with tail cocked. Plumage distinctive, with bright rusty eyebrow, throat, and breast. Compare with the larger and fatter Chestnut-throated Huet-huet.
Calandra Lark
Melanocorypha calandra
Large lark with a strong, thick bill and an obvious pale eyebrow. Thick black patches at the neck sides can vary with posture and between individuals. In flight, dark underwings with white trailing edge to upperwings are diagnostic. "Slow-motion" wingbeats in song flight make it look bigger than it is. An inhabitant of open farmland and natural steppe. May form large flocks in winter. Jumbled song consists of trills and chips, and frequently mimics other species.
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