Starling

Starling (5503763150)

Chestnut-tailed Starling I IMG 2508

File:Spectacular Starlings at Newport Wetlands Nature Reserve, Cymru, Wales.webm

Aplonis opaca

2 starlings and a robin on grape arbor. - DPLA - 9cd7742aa67b676375f64c4402dee2c2

Starling eggs

Starling refers to a group of passerine birds in the family Sturnidae. The family is known for its medium-sized, highly social, and often brightly colored members. Starlings are native to the Old World, from Europe, Asia, and Africa, to northern Australia and the islands of the tropical Pacific. The most widely recognized species within this family is the European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), which has been introduced to many parts of the world, far beyond its original range.

Description

Starlings have strong feet, their flight is strong and direct, and they are very gregarious. Their preferred habitat is fairly open country, and they eat insects and fruit. Several species live around human habitation and are effectively omnivores. Plumage among species in the family varies, but it is often iridescent and glossy, a feature particularly noticeable in the breeding season. Starlings have a unique behavior of murmuration, where thousands of birds fly in swooping, intricately coordinated patterns through the sky.

Species and Distribution

The Sturnidae family includes over 120 species divided into several genera. The European Starling is the most widespread in the family, and due to human introduction, it is found in the Americas, Australasia, and South Africa, where it is often considered a pest for its impact on native bird species and agriculture.

Behavior and Ecology

Starlings are known for their remarkable vocal abilities and can mimic a wide range of sounds, including the calls of other birds. In terms of social structure, they are highly gregarious outside the breeding season and can form large flocks that participate in the aforementioned murmurations. These flocks can include thousands of individuals and serve various purposes, including predator avoidance and increased foraging efficiency.

Reproduction

Starlings are monogamous and often nest in cavities, where they lay four to six eggs. Both parents participate in raising the young. The nesting sites can be natural or artificial, including old trees and buildings. In urban areas, starlings are known to occupy nest boxes as well as vents and eaves in buildings.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of starlings varies widely among species. While the European Starling is abundant and even considered invasive in some of its introduced ranges, other species are threatened or endangered. Habitat loss, changes in land use, and competition from invasive species like the European Starling itself have contributed to declines in some native starling populations.

Cultural Significance

Starlings have been part of human culture in various ways. Their ability to mimic sounds has been noted in literature and folklore. However, their reputation is mixed due to their impact as an invasive species in parts of their introduced range, where they compete with native birds and damage crops.