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Birds and Butterflies of Rhodes
RODOPTERA
Pastor roseus
Rosy starling (male). Greek: αγιoπoύλι (αρσενικό). Kalathos beach, May 2023.
Rare vagrant during migration. Length: 18-22 cm, wingspan: 37-40 cm. Distinctive appearance with pink body, black head, wings and tail, reddish bill and black crest. Sexes similar, female with shorter crest. Juveniles pale brownish grey overall with yellow bill. Open coastal areas. Feeds on berries and other fruits, grains, large insects. Highly nomadic, winters in India and Middle East.
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