Burchell's Starling vs Greater Blue-eared Starling

Burchell's Starling and Greater Blue-eared Starling are both glossy starlings, but they can be distinguished by their eye color and subtle differences in plumage. Burchell's Starling typically has a paler eye, while the Greater Blue-eared Starling has a striking bright yellow eye.

1. Eye color: Look for the eye color; Burchell's Starling has a paler eye compared to the bright yellow eye of the Greater Blue-eared Starling. 2. Plumage sheen: Note the blue sheen around the ear coverts in Greater Blue-eared Starling, which is less pronounced in Burchell's Starling.

Both species exhibit iridescent plumage, but Greater Blue-eared Starling has a more pronounced blue sheen, especially around the ear coverts, which gives it its name. Burchell's Starling may appear more uniformly glossy without the distinct blue ear patch.