Violet backed starling

Introduction: Violet-backed starlings (Cinnyricinclus leucogaster) are also known as plum-coloured starlings. Riverine forest and savannah woodland dominate their habitat range, consistent with their mainly arboreal behaviour. Although they are observed in pairs or family groups, small flocks of up to 20 birds are not uncommon.

Distribution: Mainly western central and scattered populations throughout Damaraland, Kaokoland, extending eastwards through the Kavango Region and on through the Caprivi Strip to Victoria Falls. Common in the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve.
Diet: Takes insects off branches or in flight.

Description: A small starling with shiny purple upper parts, blackish brown flight feathers, chin and throat purple, remainder of belly white (leucogaster). Cinnyricinclus is a Latin word for 'a starling'.

Breeding: From 2 to 4 eggs are laid February to March and incubated for up to 14 days.

Size: 17cm.

Weight: 44g.