Image via Macaulay Library
Narrow-tailed Starling
- Scientific name
- Poeoptera lugubris
- Family
- Sturnidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Narrow
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Narrow-tailed Starling (Poeoptera lugubris) was first described by Bonaparte in 1854. It belongs to a specialized group of African starlings adapted to the canopy layers of lowland rainforests, particularly in Central and West Africa. Its evolutionary history reflects a long-standing adaptation to dense forest environments where its slender profile and agile flight patterns allow it to navigate thick foliage with relative ease.
The bird's design is defined by its distinctive narrow wings and pointed tail, features that optimize its energy efficiency during frequent, rapid movements between fruiting trees. Unlike the more robust starlings found in open habitats, the Narrow-tailed Starling exhibits a quiet, unassuming aesthetic that has made it a subject of interest for ornithologists studying niche specialization in the Afrotropical realm. It is rarely observed outside of primary forest areas, which has contributed to its reputation as a subtle, elusive member of the Sturnidae family.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Narrow-tailed Starling
Narrow-tailed Starling is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Narrow-tailed Starling on collecto.rs?
Narrow-tailed Starling doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Narrow-tailed Starling?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Narrow-tailed Starling catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Narrow-tailed Starling is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
