European Starlings
/ By David Carter
European starlings are medium-sized birds also known as common starlings. They measure approximately 20 cm in length and originated in North America — a small flock released in New York City in the 1890s has since spread across the entire continent. Today they can be found across western and southern Europe and southwestern Asia, where they thrive in a wide range of climates. They’re best known for their iridescent plumage and the massive synchronized flock displays called murmurations.
Diet and Behavior
These birds have a diverse diet consisting of:
- Fruits
- Grains
- Seeds
- Garbage
- Various invertebrates
European starlings actively forage for food in areas with short grass, including lawns, pastures, farms, and golf courses.