“When the Salam tree (Syzygium polyanthum) bears fruits, mixed flocks of frugivorous birds like Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis), mynahs, bulbuls and Asian Glossy Starling (Aplonis panayensis) gorge themselves and create a din for a whole week.
“In October 2014, a small flock of about 40 migrant Purple-backed Starling, also known as Daurian Starling (Sturnus sturninus), appeared and joined in the feast.
“We managed to obtain a few clips of hungry birds feeding frantically. Each individual scanned the bunches of fruits and went for the choice ripe fruits. They had no problems gobbling up the fruits whole.”
Teo Lee Wei & K
Singapore
1st January 2015
Note: Image of the Purple-backed Starling is by KC Tsang, video clip by Teo Lee Wei & K.