Wattled Starling

100

Not yet spotted on Fladder

A unique starling from Africa, famous for the dramatic changes in its facial appearance, particularly the development of bare, yellow and black wattles, especially in breeding males.

Where to spot

Open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas across sub-Saharan Africa, with nomadic movements influenced by food availability.

How to spot

Look for flocks of starlings in open country. Identify by the unique bare facial skin and wattles (especially prominent in breeding males) and overall pale grey-brown plumage with black wings.

When to spot

Year-round, but most striking during the breeding season (often correlated with rainfall) when males display their wattles.

Where to spot

Open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas across sub-Saharan Africa, with nomadic movements influenced by food availability.

How to spot

Look for flocks of starlings in open country. Identify by the unique bare facial skin and wattles (especially prominent in breeding males) and overall pale grey-brown plumage with black wings.

When to spot

Year-round, but most striking during the breeding season (often correlated with rainfall) when males display their wattles.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

During the breeding season, male Wattled Starlings develop astonishing bare yellow and black wattles and lose most of the feathers on their head, becoming almost bald and grotesque-looking.

Spotted Information Sounds Comments