Where does the Black-collared Starling live?

The Black-collared Starling lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.

Biomes

Tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, shrublands, wetlands (marshes, swamps), and urban/suburban areas.

Geographic range

Southeast Asia, including southern China (Yunnan, Guangxi, Guangdong, Hainan), Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and parts of Peninsular Malaysia. It has also been introduced to Taiwan.

Preferred environments

Favors open country, agricultural land, parks, gardens, golf courses, urban fringes, and areas with scattered trees and short grass. It is often associated with human habitation and disturbed environments.

Elevation range

Typically found from sea level up to approximately 1,500 meters (5,000 feet).

Where to look

Field tips

1. Look on the ground. These starlings primarily forage on the ground in short grass, so scan lawns, fields, and open areas.
2. Listen for calls. Their varied and often loud vocalizations make them easy to locate, even before you see them.
3. Check communal roosts. Outside the breeding season, look for large flocks gathering at communal roost sites, often in tall trees, especially at dusk.
4. Observe in pairs or small groups. They are rarely solitary, so if you see one, there are likely others nearby.

Migration

Primarily a resident species throughout its range, with no significant migratory movements. Local movements may occur in response to food availability or habitat changes.

Explore the Black-collared Starling