Least Concern Birds

Red-winged Starling

Onychognathus morio

Red-winged Starling has red wings; found in African savannas and rocky hills.

Scientific name	Onychognathus morio
Swahili name	Njiwa mwekundu
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Sturnidae
Size	Male: approximately 120-140 grams; female: slightly lighter, about 110-130 grams

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How to identify

Male has predominantly black plumage with a distinct red wing patch; female is darker in color with less conspicuous wing patch; medium to large size, relatively long tail; black bill, yellow eyes; red wing patch is prominent in flight.

Habitat

Commonly found in open sparse woodland savannas, rocky mountainous areas, shrublands, and urban edge habitats.

Diet

Omnivorous, primarily feeding on insects, fruits, and berries, also preys on small invertebrates.

When it is active

Diurnal, active throughout the day, especially in early morning and late afternoon.

Where it lives

Distributed across eastern and southern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and adjacent regions; commonly seen in Maasai Mara National Reserve.

How to spot it

Observe during early morning or late afternoon in open areas or near rocks; identify by the red wing patch; pay attention to wing spread during flight.

Photography tips

Use soft morning light for photography, capturing the dynamic red wing patch in flight; choose natural rock or tree backgrounds to highlight color contrast.