Starling

Sturnus vulgaris

SIZE AND DESCRIPTION

21cm. Short tail and neck, upright stance, pink legs, white spots and metallic green shine. Non-breeding plumage has clear pale spots, which are reduced in breeding male. Breeding male also has a yellow bill; bill otherwise blackish. In flight, has an arrowhead profile. Flocks fly in tight formation. Juvenile grey-brown.

VOICE

Versatile mimic of other birds. Calls are creaky twitters, chirps, clicks and whistles.

HABITAT

Widespread throughout Europe in all habitats, particularly human settlements. In Britain large flocks roost in coastal reedbeds in winter.

FOOD AND HABITS

Eats berries, seeds and fruits. Breeds in holes. Outside breeding season roosts in huge flocks in city buildings and trees.