European Starling
NameEuropean Starling
Common NameEuropean Starling
Scientific NameSturnus vulgaris
FamilySturnidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black plumage with iridescent green and purple sheens. In winter, fresh feathers have white tips, giving them a speckled appearance. The bill is dark in winter and bright yellow in summer. Juveniles are dull brown.
Vocalization / CallHighly vocal, with a complex repertoire of whistles, clicks, rattles, and chattering calls. They are renowned mimics, incorporating sounds from other birds and their environment into their songs.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsurban, suburban, agricultural land, grassland, open woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Widely introduced and established in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where it is often considered an invasive species.
Identifying Featuresiridescent black plumage, speckled appearance in winter, yellow bill in summer, short tail, pointed wings, murmuration behavior
Description
The European Starling is a medium-sized passerine bird with iridescent black plumage. They are highly social, often forming massive, synchronized flocks known as murmurations, especially at dusk, as depicted in the image. This adaptable species thrives in a variety of human-modified environments.
