Invasive species alert for Cyprus – emphasis on Akrotiri Peninsula

Length about 25 cm (the size of a Starling) 

Brown with black head. Yellow legs, bill and behind the eye. White window on wings

Feeds on insects, berries, seeds and discarded human food

Very loud and noisy

Can be found near human habitation e.g. in gardens, buildings and grassy areas/fields

Fearless, can be approached easily

Has a considerable impact on biodiversity, in particular on other birds through competition for food and for nesting holes. The species also predates on eggs and nestlings of native birds, and can spread parasites and pathogens