Starling
Sturnus vulgaris
Conservation status: Red listed – Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981
When to see: January to December
About
Starlings are small to medium-sized birds that belong to the family of Sturnidae, commonly found in the UK. These birds have a striking appearance with glossy, iridescent plumage that shimmers in shades of green, purple and blue-black. They have a distinctive pointed bill and short tail feathers. Starlings are known for their vocal abilities, which range from imitating sounds or whistles to producing complex songs consisting of various mimicked species’ calls. Starlings are omnivores with a diet ranging from insects, fruits, and seeds to human food waste in urban areas, making them adaptable residents in both rural and urban settings across the country. Despite their beauty and unique talents, these birds can cause problems when they flock in large numbers around airports or invade agricultural lands; however, there is no doubt that starlings remain one of the most fascinating bird species found within the United Kingdom today.
| See also different: | Garden birds |
