European Starling by Sam Crowe

Migrating flocks of European Starlings consisting of 100,000 birds are not uncommon. They nest in cavities (holes in trees, buildings, and nest boxes) and will aggressively destroy eggs and kill nestlings of native birds (like bluebirds and woodpeckers) to use their cavities.

Sound

Quiet series of rattles and whistled notes; imitates the sounds of other animals including humans.

To listen to the songs of this species click here.

Habitat

Cities, towns, suburbs, and farmland

Food

Berries, insects and other invertebrates, fruits, grains, seeds, and garbage

Did you know?

The European Starling is not native to North America. In 1890-1892, a group that wanted to introduce all birds mentioned

Photo by Len Endy

in Shakespeare’s writings to North America released about 100 starlings in New York City’s Central Park. There are now more than 200 million starlings across most of the continent.

To learn more about European Starlings please visit All About Birds.

Courtesy of the Monterrey County Herald (photos by Orville Myers)