The Starling Family
(Sturnidae)

Order: Passerines (Passeriformes)

 

 

Starling


Starling

Sturnus vulgaris

The Starling is a very dark shiny green and purple, and is almost black. In the winter its body is speckled with white dots.

It has a short tail, and scuttles around on the floor looking for food.

At the end of the breeding season, in July, Starlings form huge flocks made up of thousands of birds, which roost together in buildings, trees or reeds.

 

 

 

Starling (during winter)

 

Habitat

Starlings can be found in many different types of habitat, and are good at adapting to new environments. It can even be found in the centre of big cities.

 
Food

Starlings eat insects, grubs and fruit.

 
Nest and Eggs

The Starling builds its nest in a hole, which it finds either in a wall, under the roof, or in a tree. It lays four to seven pale blue eggs, between April and June.

 
Where and When? Starlings can be found all over Britain at all times of the year. Some of them emigrate in October.
Call/Song

Starlings make a loud chattering and twittering, with a few high long whistles thrown in for good measure.

 
Length

26 cm.

 
Fun Fact The Starling often copies the songs and sounds made by other birds, and also imitates other familiar sounds such a person whistling for its dog.