The greater blue-eared starling or greater blue-eared glossy-starling (Lamprotornis chalybaeus) is a bird that breeds from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south through eastern Africa to northeastern South Africa and Angola. It is a very common species of open woodland bird, and undertakes some

The greater blue-eared starling is a compact bird, measuring 22 cm in length with a short tail. This starling exhibits a glossy blue-green plumage, featuring a purple-blue belly and a distinctive blue ear patch. Its iris is a vibrant yellow or orange. Both sexes share a similar appearance, but the juvenile is characterized by a duller plumage and blackish brown underparts.

There is regional variation within the species, with populations from southern Kenya southwards being smaller than their northern counterparts. Some authorities consider these southern birds as a separate subspecies, identified as L. c. sycobius.

The lesser blue-eared starling bears resemblance to the greater blue-eared species, but it can be distinguished by the absence of blue extending forward of the legs on its belly.

The greater blue-eared starling communicates through a range of musical or grating calls, with the nasal squee-ar being one of its most recognizable vocalizations. This bird’s calls are a distinctive feature in its acoustic repertoire.