This pair of starlings did their best to attack the rock monitor lizard which lay cunningly disguised on the trunk of a tree. They weren’t happy about the lizard’s presence and made this quite clear.
Starling alerts game viewers to lizard’s presence
Initially, a single glossy starling settled on the branches of a thornbush, its brilliant blue colour on display. Its striking colour stood in stark contrast to the toned-down brown scales of a monitor lizard, which was so well camouflaged that it could have been easily overlooked.
It was the bird’s behaviour which alerted witness Jan Bergh to the lizard’s presence.
Second starling appears on the scene
The single glossy starling was soon accompanied by a partner, which descended to the branches of the thicket below to sit alongside the other starling.
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The birds had the lizard in sight and it held their full attention.
Glossy starlings are some of the most eye-catching birds in the Kruger National Park. They are actually known for their metallic colours and their bold behaviour, which these ones definitely put on full show.
These birds are also highly intelligent and very vocal, communicating with a wide range of whistles, clicks and harsh calls. As relatively fearless birds, they are well known for mobbing behaviour.
Starlings attack lizard in breathtaking display
The pair of birds took turns bombarding the lizard with intimidating gestures; flapping their wings furiously and striking at it. They pulled out all the stops in their onslaught of the lizard.
The lizard, however, appeared relatively unmoved. It continued to lie completely still; still barely visible with its brown colour blending in beautifully with the surrounding bark.
The birds gathered momentarily to gather strength before having a go at the lizard again.
Their attempts appeared futile, however, they worked together as a team, convinced in their own minds that they had what it took to bring the giant down.
An example of teamwork at its finest
Starlings will often act together to drive a reptile away. This behaviour, known as mobbing, is a defensive strategy used to protect nests, eggs, or chicks from a known threat. These starlings definitely perceived the lizard as a threat and they would have none of it, even if the lizard was something of a ‘Goliath’ before them.
Rock monitor lizards are skilled climbers and notorious nest raiders, making them a prime target for aggressive birds.
While the birds’ efforts seemed pointless, in such an instance, each swooping attack will usually forces the lizard to shift its grip, limiting its ability to escape or descend safely. Eventually, the relentless harassment usually succeeds. The stressed monitor lizard will usually retreat lower down the tree or drop to the ground, where its speed and strength give it a better chance to flee.
This rare viewing showcased the determination of some of nature’s smallest species, in this instance, glossy starlings. Also, how even in the bushveld, through persistence and teamwork, anything is possible. Formidable opponents can be outmatched when smaller animals unite to defend their young and territory.
