It is a small starling with a metallic green crown, upper body, wings and tail.

The emerald starling feeds on figs, Haronga berries and other fruit, seeds, ants and other small insects.

The male and female cooperate in building the nest from leaves, and both bring food to chicks after they hatch.

Females possess a brood patch—a spot on their stomach lacking feathers—that helps them transfer body heat to their eggs.

The emerald starling is caught for the wildlife trade and is locally threatened by mining activities, but overall this is unlikely to cause a major decline in the species.