BALI STARLING
Leucopsar rothschildi
The Bali Starlings are one of the most important animals we hold here at BCA Zoo as they are considered critically endangered in the wild with the most recent estimates putting their population at less than 100 individuals. We regularly fundraise to help support the EAZA Silent Forest Campaign which works to help protect these bird mainly from illegal poaching which is the main threat they face in the wild. You can find out more about the Silent Forest Campaign here.
During the winter they would live in flocks however as they enter breeding season they would separate off into their breeding pairs. Ours can often be spotted doing a strange dance including shrieking and head bobbing, this in the wild would be used to attract a mate.
IUCN Red List status: Critically Endangered.
Bali starlings occupy an extremely small range and there is only a tiny population which is still suffering from illegal poaching. Releases of captive-bred birds have boosted the population, but it is uncertain how many of these have yet bred successfully in the wild.
Insectivore:
The Bali Starling's diet includes fruit, seeds, worms and insects
A Murmuration or A Clutter
Indonesia (Bali)
Forest, Shrubland & Savannah
The Bali Starling is featured on the Indonesian 200-rupiah coin which is worth around 1 penny in UK currency