The violet-backed starling (Cinnyricinclus leucogaster), also known as the plum-coloured starling or amethyst starling. Masai Mara National Park.

The violet-backed starling is renowned for its breathtaking appearance. Its name is derived from the striking violet-blue feathers that adorn its back and shoulders. These iridescent plumage shine and shimmer in the sunlight, creating a spectacle of colors that mesmerizes onlookers. The rest of its body is adorned with dark plum-colored feathers, forming a beautiful contrast against the vivid violet hues. Its belly, in particular, boasts a striking white color, further accentuating its overall elegance.

Endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, the violet-backed starling can be found in various habitats, including woodland areas, savannas, and grasslands. Within the Masai Mara National Park, it finds a haven teeming with the resources it needs to thrive. The park’s diverse ecosystem, with its abundance of trees, shrubs, and insects, provides an ideal habitat for these starlings.

During the breeding season, which typically occurs between November and April, the violet-backed starling forms large, gregarious flocks. Males use their brilliant plumage to attract mates, performing elaborate courtship displays that involve spreading their wings and flashing their vibrant colors. Once a pair forms a bond, they will collaborate to build a nest, usually concealed within the branches of a tree. The female will lay a clutch of two to four eggs, which both parents will take turns incubating.

Aside from their visual splendor, violet-backed starlings possess a melodious and varied song. Their vocalizations consist of a mixture of chirps, whistles, and trills, creating a symphony of sounds that resonates through the park’s lush vegetation. Their ability to mimic other bird species adds another layer of fascination to their repertoire.

The presence of the violet-backed starling in the Masai Mara National Park not only adds to the park’s aesthetic appeal but also serves as an indicator of the region’s environmental health. As a sensitive species, their presence indicates the availability of suitable habitat and resources necessary for their survival. Therefore, their existence within the park’s boundaries highlights the importance of preserving and protecting the diverse ecosystems that sustain such unique avian species.

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, encountering the violet-backed starling in the Masai Mara National Park is a true delight. Witnessing its ethereal beauty and hearing its enchanting melodies against the backdrop of the park’s breathtaking landscape is an experience that captures the essence of Africa’s rich natural heritage.