THE violet backed starling is also known as the plum coloured or amethyst starling.
The female of the species has a white streaked chest and brown underparts.
The bird is a summer visitor from September to May, and it has recently been sighted near Amanzimtoti High School in the purple bougainvillea.
The violet backed starling likes woodland and savanna forest edges, and occurs near dams, lakes and streams. It is common in pairs and flocks.
The male’s voice is a single, high pitched whistle while the female and juvenile softly twitter.
The bird is monogamous to one mate, and only upon death will it then take another mate. It feeds by foraging on the ground for insects, seeds and fruit.
Its nest is a hole high in tree canopies, protected from predators by branches and dense green foliage.
The starling lays two to four eggs which are red in colour. These incubate for 12 to 14 days. The male helps to feed the chicks.
The bird’s Zulu name is not known.
