Sturnus roseus
The Sturnus roseus, commonly known as the Rosy Starling, is a striking bird that stands out with its beautiful contrast of pinkish body plumage and glossy black wings, head, and tail.
During the breeding season, adult males also display a long, shaggy crest. This migratory bird is found in parts of Eastern Europe, including Croatia, particularly during the post-breeding migration. Rosy Starlings are highly sociable and are often seen in large flocks, foraging for insects, particularly locusts, which form a significant part of their diet during the summer months.
In Croatia, their presence adds vibrancy to the natural avian diversity, especially in areas where grasslands and farmlands offer ideal feeding grounds. Conservation measures, focusing on habitat protection, are essential to ensure that species like the Rosy Starling continue to thrive amidst agricultural changes and climate pressures.