Pale winged starling

Introdction: Although pale-winged starlings (Onychognathus nabouroup) are dependent on rocky hills or valleys for breeding and roosting sites, towns also attract this species, mainly for them to search for food. Flocks or small parties are the norm, as is drinking and bathing regularly.

Distribution: From the extreme north of Namibia including Epupa Falls south through the drier western regions of the country to the Fish River Canyon and the Orange River. Range includes Etosha National Park, the Skeleton Coast, Erongo Mountains and the central plateau.
Diet: Eats insects such as grasshoppers and beetles as well as fruit, pollen and nectar.

Description: A large starling with a black bill and legs and a predominately glossy black plumage with white wing patches. Onychognathus is a combination of Greek words which refer to the bill, which resembles a nail or claw.
Breeding: Both male and females provide sticks and dry grass stems to build a nest. From 2 to 5 eggs are laid November to April and incubated for around 25 days.

Size: 26cm.

Weight: 100g.