THE GLOSSY TREE-STARLIKG 
Aplonis panayensls stngatus (Horsf.) 
DescHptictt: — Few of Our local birds exhibit such an 
enormous difference in plumage dependent on age than does 
this tree-starHng. Adults of both sexes have the entire plum- 
age an extremely dark glossy green. 
Bill and feet partake of the general dark tone in that they 
are black but the eye is crimson. 
In young birds the underpans are creamy white with bold 
greenish-black streaks and the iris is yellowish-white. 
The total length is about 8J inches and the wing measures 
just over 4 inches. 
Distribution . — This species in various forms, is found 
throughout Malaysia atid also in India. A critical examination 
of all the known members of the genus would no doubt greatly 
extend this range as birds from countries much further east 
seem to be but local representatives of /I. pamiycnsls. 
Status in Singapore: — ^A certain number of these tree- 
starlings are undoubtedly resident in the district but the huge 
numbers that appear when certain trees are fruiting are not 
always with tis. Large flocks are common in the autumn and 
winter. 
Field Notes :^The very noisy flocks of birds that congre- 
gate on house-tops and in trees actually within the city of 
Singapore are usually of this species. At a distance of a few 
yards the old birds appear to be quite black with conspicuous 
rid eyes and the young birds streaked. 
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