How to Identify Sturnidae

Key Identification Features

• religiosa miotera likely qualifies as a separate distinct species, and was probably driven to extinction in the wild during the late 2010s due to unsustainable collection for the wildlife trade.
• The white-shouldered starling features blue eyes, a grey bill, and a distinctive white patch on its shoulder.
• Breeding males have a white shoulder patch and a distinct head pattern: bare yellow skin, plus black forehead and throat wattles.
• The development of these seasonal features becomes more prominent as the bird ages, and some older females may display a weaker version of this breeding plumage.

For instant identification in the field, use the iNature app — AI-powered, works offline.