Bird Identification

European Starling

Sturnus vulgaris, Length: 8.5"

Look For

Despite its reputation as a stealer of nest cavities and a hog at bird feeders, the European Starling, which looks like a blackbird but is not, is quite lovely in both its glossy breeding plumage and its spangled winter plumage.

Listen for

Song is a high-pitched jumble of whirs, whistles, and chatter. Excellent mimics, starlings may incorporate other bird songs and even human sounds into its songs. Calls include a metallic wrrrsh and pink! (often used when a hawk is sighted).

Remember

In flight, the starling can be confused with the Purple Martin: both birds' wings look triangular, but the starling flaps more often and does not glide with the grace of the martin.

Find it

Introduced from Europe, the European Starling now occurs in almost every North American habitat but has adapted especially well to living around humans. In fall and winter, starlings form large feeding and roosting flocks.

Wow!

Starlings love to adorn their nest cavities with shiny or colorful things such as coins, bits of plastic, and other birds' feathers.