White-Cheeked Starling

White-Cheeked Starling

The White-Cheeked Starling (Sturnus cineraceus) is a small bird that belongs to the Sturnidae family. It is native to parts of Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent, where it inhabits open areas with shrubs and trees, gardens, fields, and cultivated lands. The bird is known for its striking black head, neck, and upper breast, which contrast with its white cheeks, grey back and tail, and yellowish-brown belly and vent. The upper wings are black, while the lower wings are white with a black wingtip. The bird has a black bill and yellow legs. The White-Cheeked Starling is a social bird that often forms large flocks during the non-breeding season. It is a vocal bird that produces a wide range of calls, including whistles, chatters, and warbles. The bird feeds mainly on insects, spiders, grains, fruits, and nectar from flowers. It is an opportunistic feeder and can adapt to a variety of food sources depending on the season and availability. During the breeding season, the White-Cheeked Starling forms monogamous pairs and builds its nest in tree cavities or crevices. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about two weeks. The chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after about three weeks. Overall, the White-Cheeked Starling is a fascinating bird known for its striking appearance, social behavior, and adaptability to different environments and food sources.

White-Cheeked Starling, Sturnidae, Central Asia, Indian subcontinent, vocal, monogamous, nest

— Richard White