BirdAmp
Coleto (Sarcops calvus)

Coleto

Sarcops calvus

Least Concern

Overview

The coleto, scientifically known as Sarcops calvus, is a starling species endemic to the Philippines. It is a member of the monotypic genus Sarcops and is currently classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat

This bird inhabits primary and secondary forest and scrubland up to 1,000 meters above sea level. Its natural environments include tropical dry forest, tropical moist lowland forest, and tropical moist montane forest.

Diet

The coleto feeds on fruit, berries, small insects, and nectar. It forages in fruiting trees either singly, in pairs, or occasionally in small groups of up to 25 individuals.

Did you know?

The coleto possesses the ability to copy human speech, a trait that makes it a popular subject for the pet trade despite the associated conservation threats.

Sources