Rosy Starling

Adult is unique, a vision in glossy black and pale pink. Juvenile is brown with an orange bill. Breeds in colonies on steppes and winters in open and wooded habitats. Gathers in huge numbers to roost, often mixing with other species at roost sites. Flocking birds keep up a constant cacophony of dry chattering calls.

Breeds on open steppes where orthopterans (locusts and other grasshoppers) abundant; colonies usually near water, often in valleys. After breeding, moves to more wooded areas. In non-breeding season found in wide variety of habitats, including wooded areas and open country .

The Rosy Starling feeds primarily on flightless locusts and other grasshoppers. It also takes bugs, ants, beetles, moths and caterpillars. Spiders, woodlice and snails are eaten too. After the breeding season, it consumes fruits (wild and cultivated species), seeds of cereals and nectar from several flowers.