European Starlings, also known as Sturnus vulgaris, are small to medium-sized birds known for their vibrant plumage and melodious song. Apart from their aesthetic appeal and musical abilities, European Starlings hold significant ecological significance. Understanding the historical background and origin of European Starlings provides valuable insights into their impact on different ecosystems.

European Starlings have a fascinating historical background, particularly in relation to North America. They were introduced to North America in the late 1800s with the intention of introducing all bird species mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare. However, the introduction of European Starlings had unintended and far-reaching consequences on the North American ecosystems.

So, where do European Starlings originate from? They are native to Europe, specifically originating from the regions of Western Europe, Northern Africa, and Western Asia. Despite their humble origins, European Starlings have successfully established themselves in various parts of the world, including North America.

Migration is an important aspect of European Starlings’ behavior. They exhibit notable migratory patterns, with individuals moving between their breeding grounds and wintering areas. European Starlings migrate to different regions depending on factors such as food availability, weather conditions, and habitat suitability.

The behavior and characteristics of European Starlings are also worth exploring. These birds have distinctive appearances, with their black plumage, speckled feathers, and iridescent spots. They communicate using a combination of vocal sounds and various physical displays. European Starlings exhibit unique nesting habits, often creating large communal nests in tree cavities, buildings, and other suitable structures.

Due to their prolific nature and impact on native bird species, European Starlings are considered pest birds in many regions. Their introduction has led to competition for resources and potential declines in local bird populations. As a result, various methods have been implemented to manage European Starling populations and mitigate their ecological impact.

By delving into the origins, migration patterns, characteristics, and ecological impact of European Starlings, a comprehensive understanding of these birds can be gained. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective management strategies while appreciating the unique role that European Starlings play in diverse ecosystems.

What Are European Starlings?

European starlings are medium-sized birds belonging to the Sturnidae family. What Are European Starlings? These birds are native to Europe, but they have also spread to other parts of the world, including North America. European starlings are known for their glossy black plumage and iridescent feathers, which can be seen when they catch the light.

European starlings are significant for several reasons. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of habitats, from urban areas to agricultural fields. They are also excellent vocal mimics and can imitate the sounds of other birds and even human speech. In addition, European starlings play a crucial ecological role by dispersing seeds and controlling insect populations.

These birds have a unique nesting habit. They often build their nests in cavities, such as tree hollows or holes in buildings. European starlings are also known for their communal roosting behavior, where thousands of birds gather together at night to sleep. This behavior can create impressive aerial displays known as murmurations.

While European starlings are considered pests in some areas due to their large numbers and potential damage to crops, they are also appreciated for their beauty and intelligence.

European starlings are fascinating birds that have adapted well to different environments. They are known for their striking appearance, vocal mimicry, unique nesting habits, and ecological significance. Understanding the characteristics and behavior of European starlings can help us appreciate and manage their populations effectively.

Why Are European Starlings Significant?

European starlings play a crucial role in North American ecosystems, making them significant for several reasons. Their deliberate introduction in the late 1800s had a profound impact, as they have become a widespread non-native species across the continent. This deliberate introduction was motivated by individuals who wanted to introduce all the mentioned bird species into America.

The impact of European starlings on North American ecosystems cannot be ignored. They pose competition to native birds for nesting sites, food sources, and resources, which can potentially lead to declines in native bird populations. Moreover, their presence also has a notable economic impact, causing damage to crops and infrastructure.

From a behavioral perspective, European starlings exhibit remarkable flocking behavior, which adds to their significance. These birds form large, synchronized flocks comprising hundreds or even thousands of individuals. This flocking behavior plays a vital role in providing protection from predators, improving foraging efficiency, and enabling social interactions among group members.

Understanding the significance of European starlings, both in terms of their impact on North American ecosystems and their fascinating flocking behavior, is essential for effective management and conservation efforts. These birds are a unique and noteworthy species that cannot be overlooked.

Historical Background of European Starlings

The historical background of European starlings is deeply rooted in human intervention and the unintentional introduction of species to new habitats. In the late 19th century, a wealthy individual named Eugene Schieffelin embarked on a unique mission to bring every bird species mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare to North America. This led to the release of 100 European starlings in Central Park, New York City in 1890, marking the beginning of their establishment in North America.

Since their introduction, European starlings have rapidly spread across the continent, resulting in a population of over 200 million birds. Their success can be attributed to their remarkable adaptability and opportunistic feeding habits, allowing them to thrive in diverse environments ranging from urban areas to agricultural and natural habitats. As a consequence, European starlings have become one of the most prevalent and abundant bird species in North America.

While the introduction of European starlings has brought about both positive and negative impacts, it is important to acknowledge the historical background that shaped these outcomes. On the positive side, they have played a beneficial role in the control of agricultural pests and as essential pollinators. However, the large size of their populations coupled with their aggressive behavior has also resulted in negative consequences. Their competition for resources and nesting sites with native bird species has led to the decline of certain species.

Understanding the fascinating historical background of European starlings allows us to gain valuable insights and knowledge that can aid in the effective management and mitigation of the impacts caused by introduced species on native ecosystems.

For further reading on the historical background of European starlings, it is recommended to explore the following sources:
– “The Invasion of Western North America: History and Impacts of Introduced Birds” by Kimberly Sullivan
– “The Paradox of the European Starling in North America” by George M. Sutton

Where Does the European Starling Originate From?

European Starlings, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, originate from Europe, specifically from the continent’s western parts. They are native to countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Portugal. European starlings have a strong historical connection to these regions and have been part of the natural ecosystems there for centuries.

In the 19th century, a group of individuals introduced European starlings to North America, aiming to bring over all birds mentioned in William Shakespeare’s plays. This introduction marked the beginning of the European starlings’ presence in new territories outside their native range.

The population of European starlings expanded rapidly after around one hundred individuals were released in Central Park, New York City, back in 1890. From there, they spread across North America, becoming an established species in the region.

The introduction of European starlings to North America has had significant ecological impacts. Their large population size and aggressive behavior have posed threats to native bird species. Due to their competitive nature for nesting sites and food resources, native cavity-nesting birds like woodpeckers and bluebirds face challenges in coexisting.

To mitigate the negative effects of European starlings, it has become necessary to control their populations. Various methods such as trapping, exclusion techniques, and reducing food availability are employed in efforts to manage these pest birds. The goal is to protect native bird populations and maintain the balance of ecosystems.

Understanding the origin of European starlings is crucial in comprehending their presence and impact in different regions. By addressing their introduction and subsequent spread, appropriate management strategies can be developed to minimize their negative ecological effects.

Where Does the European Starling Originate From? The European starling originates from Europe, specifically from the continent’s western parts. They are native to countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Portugal. European starlings have a strong historical connection to these regions and have been part of the natural ecosystems there for centuries.

European Starlings in North America

European Starlings are a non-native species in North America, known for their adaptability and aggressive nature. They were introduced from Europe in the late 19th century by the American Acclimatization Society, with the aim of bringing all the birds mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare to North America. As a result, approximately 100 European Starlings were released in New York City’s Central Park in 1890. Since then, the population of European Starlings has rapidly expanded across North America.

These European Starlings have thrived in their new environment, successfully occupying a variety of habitats, including urban areas, farmlands, and forests. They are famous for forming large flocks consisting of thousands of birds. However, these flocks can cause significant damage to agricultural crops, consume valuable food sources of native bird species, and even displace other bird species from their habitats.

Their aggressive nature is evident in their competition for nesting sites with native birds. They often take over tree cavities and birdhouses, leading to native birds losing their homes. Moreover, European Starlings engage in aggressive behavior towards other species, sometimes causing harm. Despite their negative impacts, they do provide some ecological benefits, such as controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds.

Efforts are being made to mitigate the impact of European Starlings in North America. These include the use of exclusion devices on buildings and the implementation of targeted management strategies.

Considering their negative impact on native bird populations, European Starlings are considered an invasive species in North America. In fact, they are frequently listed among the top 100 invasive species worldwide.

A fascinating fact about European Starlings is their mimicry abilities. They are capable of imitating a wide range of sounds, including human speech, car alarms, and calls of other bird species.

When and How Were European Starlings Introduced to North America?

European Starlings were intentionally introduced to North America by a man named Eugene Schieffelin. In the 1890s, Schieffelin had the idea of bringing all the birds mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare to North America, which included European Starlings. He chose to release around 60 starlings in Central Park in New York City between 1890 and 1891.

The purpose behind introducing European Starlings to North America was to establish populations of all the bird species mentioned by Shakespeare. Schieffelin believed that this introduction would enhance the bird population in North America and create a connection with British literature.

Regrettably, the introduction of European Starlings turned out to be detrimental to native bird species. These starlings have thrived and rapidly spread across the continent, outcompeting native species for nesting sites and food resources.

Today, European Starlings are recognized as invasive species within North America. They have a negative impact on native bird populations and agricultural crops. Their large flocks can cause damage to crops, consume significant amounts of livestock feed, and even pose a threat to flying aircraft.

Efforts have been made to manage European Starling populations, such as culling programs and the implementation of barriers to prevent them from nesting in specific areas. However, their adaptability and high reproductive rate make it challenging to effectively control their numbers.

The intentional introduction of European Starlings to North America was carried out by Eugene Schieffelin in the 1890s. Sadly, this act has led to unintended negative consequences for native bird species and ecosystems.

European Starlings’ Impact on North American Ecosystems

European Starlings have had a significant impact on North American ecosystems since their introduction. Here are some key ways in which their presence has affected the environment:

1. Competition for Resources: European Starlings compete with native bird species for food, nesting sites, and habitat. Their large populations and aggressive behavior can displace native bird species, potentially leading to declines in their populations.
2. Crop Damage: European Starlings are known to feed on agricultural crops such as berries, grapes, and grains. This can result in significant economic losses for farmers and impact local ecosystems. The damage caused by these birds can lead to reduced yields and the need for additional pest management strategies.
3. Disrupting Native Ecosystems: European Starlings are cavity nesters and often take over nesting sites that would normally be used by native bird species. This can disrupt the natural balance of local ecosystems, as other bird species may struggle to find suitable nesting habitats.
4. Disease Transmission: European Starlings can act as reservoirs for various diseases and parasites. Their presence can increase the risk of transmission to other bird species and potentially even to humans. It is important to monitor and manage their populations to minimize the spread of disease.

It is crucial to implement effective methods for managing European Starling populations in order to mitigate their impact on North American ecosystems. This can include strategies such as habitat modification, exclusion techniques, and targeted control measures. By addressing the challenges posed by European Starlings, we can help preserve the biodiversity and balance of native ecosystems.

Fact: European Starlings were introduced to North America in the late 1800s by an individual who wanted to bring all bird species mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare to the continent.

Migration Patterns of European Starlings

Migration Patterns of European Starlings	Duration	Distance Traveled	Destination
Spring	March to May	Approximately 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers)	From Africa to Europe
Fall	August to October	Approximately 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers)	From Europe to Africa

Migration Patterns of European Starlings are well-known for their remarkable migration patterns. During spring, from March to May, these birds embark on a journey covering approximately 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) from Africa to Europe. This migration is fueled by the search for breeding grounds with abundant food resources and optimal conditions for reproduction. As the weather warms up and food becomes more abundant in Europe, starlings take advantage of these favorable conditions to cultivate their nests and raise their young.

In the fall, from August to October, the European starlings begin their reverse journey. They fly back to Africa, traveling the same distance once again, to escape the harsh European winter. Their remarkable navigational abilities and sense of timing allow them to embark on this long and arduous journey.

During the migrations, European starlings form large flocks, often numbering in the thousands or even millions of individuals. These flocks provide protection against predators and help the birds navigate and find food along the way. The flocking behavior also creates an impressive spectacle in the sky, with swirling patterns and synchronized movements.

The migration patterns of European starlings demonstrate their ability to adapt and thrive in different environments. These birds showcase their proficiency at finding suitable breeding grounds and sustaining themselves through long journeys. The annual migrations of European starlings are an awe-inspiring sight and a testament to the wonders of nature’s grand performances.

Where Do European Starlings Migrate to?

European Starlings are migratory birds that undertake long journeys to reach their destination. When it comes to migration, European Starlings exhibit an interesting pattern.

1. European Starlings migrate to different parts of Europe and Asia during the breeding season. They travel to countries such as Germany, France, Sweden, and Russia in search of suitable nesting locations.

2. During the winter months, European Starlings migrate to find warmer climates and abundant food sources. Many European Starlings migrate to southern Europe, including Spain, Italy, and Greece. They also migrate to North Africa and the Middle East.

3. Some European Starlings undertake even longer migrations and travel to regions in Asia. They can be found in countries such as Turkey, Iran, and even parts of India and China.

4. The migration of European Starlings is influenced by factors such as food availability, temperature, and day length. They rely on these environmental cues to determine when and where to migrate.

5. European Starlings travel in large flocks during migration, sometimes consisting of thousands of birds. This behavior provides them with safety in numbers and allows for efficient navigation during their journey.

Fun Fact: European Starlings are known for their impressive aerial displays called murmurations. These displays involve large numbers of birds flying together in intricate patterns, creating a mesmerizing spectacle in the sky.

By understanding where European Starlings migrate to, researchers and conservationists can better study and protect these birds throughout their migration routes.

What Factors Influence European Starlings’ Migration?

European Starlings’ migration is influenced by various factors. Understanding these factors provides insights into their behavior. Here are the key factors that affect European Starlings’ migration patterns:

1. Seasonal changes: European Starlings migrate in response to seasonal changes to find suitable breeding grounds and food sources. They typically migrate to the northern parts of Europe during the breeding season and move towards more temperate regions during winter.

2. Food availability: The migration patterns of European Starlings are greatly influenced by the availability of food. They migrate to areas with an abundance of insects, fruits, and grains, which are their primary food sources.

3. Climate conditions: Climate conditions, including temperature and weather patterns, significantly impact European Starlings’ migration. They avoid harsh weather conditions and migrate to regions with milder climates.

4. Day length: The length of daylight influences European Starlings. Longer days in spring and summer trigger their breeding instincts, leading them to migrate to suitable breeding grounds.

5. Genetic programming: Genetic programming also influences migration patterns. European Starlings have an innate instinct to migrate, which is passed down through generations.

6. Social cues: European Starlings often migrate in large flocks. Social cues, such as following the movements of other birds, influence their migration patterns. They migrate together in coordinated groups.

These factors work together to determine the timing, direction, and duration of European Starlings’ migration. By understanding these influences, scientists and researchers can gain valuable insights into the movement and behavior of these migratory birds.

The Behavior and Characteristics of European Starlings

The European Starling, also known as Sturnus vulgaris, is a highly adaptable bird species with distinct behavior and characteristics.

• The Behavior and Characteristics of European Starlings: European Starlings are highly social birds and often gather in large flocks, known as murmurations. These flocks can consist of thousands of birds. They communicate through a variety of vocalizations, including whistles, chirps, and mimicry of other bird species. Starlings are also known for their impressive aerial displays, with coordinated flight patterns and sudden changes in direction.
• Feeding Habits: European Starlings have a diverse diet, feeding on a wide range of insects, invertebrates, fruits, seeds, and grains. Their feeding habits can have both positive and negative impacts. While they help control pest populations and disperse seeds, they can also become agricultural pests and compete with native bird species for resources.
• Breeding and Nesting: Starlings typically breed once a year, with breeding pairs forming in early spring. They build nests in cavities, such as tree hollows, building crevices, and nest boxes. Males perform elaborate courtship displays to attract mates. The female lays multiple eggs, usually 4-6, which both parents take turns incubating. The young hatch after about two weeks and are cared for by both parents until they fledge.
• Morphology and Plumage: European Starlings are medium-sized birds with sleek bodies and pointy bills. They have iridescent black plumage, speckled with white spots during their breeding season. Outside the breeding season, their plumage may appear duller and less colorful. Adult starlings have bright yellow beaks, while juveniles have darker beaks.
• Range and Habitat: European Starlings are native to Europe and western Asia but have been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, South Africa, and Australia. They are adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, including urban areas, farmlands, and woodlands.

The Behavior and Characteristics of European Starlings make them remarkable birds in terms of their social dynamics, adaptability, and contribution to ecosystems.

What Do European Starlings Look Like?

European starlings are medium-sized birds with a unique appearance. What Do European Starlings Look Like? Here is what European starlings look like:

1. Plumage: European starlings have glossy black feathers with hints of iridescent green and purple, especially on their heads and bodies. Their feathers have a speckled appearance due to white spots called spots or dots. These spots are more prominent during the breeding season.
2. Size: European starlings measure around 8-9 inches in length, with a wingspan of about 12-16 inches. They have a stocky build, giving them a robust appearance.
3. Bill: The bill of a European starling is long and slender. It is sharp and slightly curved, enabling them to probe into the ground in search of insects and larvae.
4. Eyes: European starlings have dark, round eyes that are highly noticeable against their black feathers.
5. Legs and Feet: Their legs and feet are pinkish-red in color. They have strong, clawed feet that allow them to perch securely on various surfaces.
6. Beak: The beak of a European starling is yellow in color, contrasting with their dark feathers. It is sharp and pointed, aiding in their feeding behavior.
7. Vocalization: While their physical appearance is unique, European starlings are also known for their extraordinary vocal abilities. They can mimic the songs of other birds, producing a diverse range of sounds.

What Do European Starlings Look Like? European starlings’ appearance makes them easily identifiable. With their glossy black plumage, white spots, slender beak, and distinctive vocalization, these birds are a captivating sight in nature.

How Do European Starlings Communicate?

European starlings communicate through a variety of vocalizations, body language, and flocking behavior. So, how do European starlings communicate?

1. Vocalizations: European starlings produce an impressive range of calls and songs, allowing them to imitate sounds from their surroundings, including those made by other bird species and even human-made sounds. These vocalizations serve different purposes, such as attracting mates, defending territory, and alerting others to potential threats.

2. Mimicry: European starlings possess a remarkable ability to mimic the sounds they hear in their environment. This skill enables them to learn and imitate the vocalizations of other bird species, facilitating communication with different species and potentially deceiving them.

3. Body Language: European starlings also communicate through various body movements and displays. They utilize postures, wing positions, and tail movements to convey messages to their fellow birds. For instance, raising and puffing up their feathers can indicate aggression or dominance, while crouching and spreading their wings can be a sign of submission.

4. Flocking Behavior: When flying in large flocks known as murmurations, European starlings synchronize their movements, creating mesmerizing patterns. This collective behavior not only confuses predators but also helps them stay connected with other members of the group.

Understanding how European starlings communicate is captivating and allows us to appreciate their complex social dynamics. By observing their vocalizations, mimicry, body language, and flocking behavior, researchers can gain insights into their social structure and communication strategies.

As you delve deeper into the world of European starlings, take the time to listen to their songs and observe their behaviors. It is through these unique communication methods that these birds navigate their environment and interact with their fellow flock members.

What Are European Starlings’ Nesting Habits?

European starlings have interesting nesting habits that are worth exploring. What are European starlings’ nesting habits? Here are some key points to understand:

1. Nesting sites: European starlings typically nest in cavities, such as tree holes, nest boxes, and even man-made structures like buildings or vents. They are known for their adaptability and will settle in various locations, including urban areas.

2. Nest construction: European starlings build nests using twigs, leaves, grass, and feathers. They create a cup-shaped structure with a soft lining to protect their eggs. These nests are often built in tight spaces and can be quite elaborate.

3. Nesting behavior: European starlings are highly social birds, and they often nest in colonies. These colonies can range from a few pairs to several hundred pairs, depending on the availability of suitable nesting sites.

4. Breeding season: European starlings breed once a year, usually during spring or early summer. The females lay a clutch of 4-6 eggs, which they incubate for about two weeks. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the hatchlings.

5. Fledgling stage: Once the eggs hatch, the nest becomes a busy place with both parents diligently feeding the hungry chicks. The nestlings grow rapidly and leave the nest around three weeks after hatching. They continue to be fed by their parents for some time until they become independent.

Understanding European starlings’ nesting habits is crucial for managing their populations or providing suitable nesting opportunities. If you want to attract starlings to your property, consider installing nest boxes with suitable dimensions and entrance sizes. Keep in mind that starlings are considered pest birds in some areas due to their aggressive behavior and potential impact on native bird species.

Pro-tip: Providing nesting options for European starlings can help reduce competition for natural cavities and promote biodiversity in urban environments. Ensure proper maintenance of nest boxes to prevent the spread of diseases among bird populations.

Controlling European Starling Populations

To effectively control European starling populations, it is necessary to take active measures to mitigate their impact on the ecosystem and native bird species. Here are some proven strategies for controlling European starling populations:

1. Bird deterrents: To prevent starlings from roosting in buildings or structures, physical barriers such as netting or spikes can be installed. Additionally, the use of visual deterrents like scarecrows or shiny objects can discourage starlings from nesting in specific areas.
2. Noise deterrents: The use of noisemakers or ultrasonic devices can disrupt starlings’ roosting and nesting behavior, making the area less attractive to them. This approach has been successful in reducing starling populations in urban areas.
3. Habitat modification: Modifying the environment to make it less favorable for starlings can help control their populations. This can include reducing food sources by removing bird feeders or implementing landscaping practices that discourage foraging.
4. Trapping and removal: In cases where starlings pose a significant threat, trapping and removing them can be an effective strategy. Trapped birds can be either released in more appropriate areas or humanely euthanized, depending on local regulations and conservation goals.
5. Legislative regulations: Implementing regulations on the possession, transport, or sale of starlings and other invasive bird species can help prevent their spread and control populations. This may involve permits for certain activities or restrictions on the keeping of starlings as pets.

By actively implementing these strategies, we can effectively control European starling populations and minimize their negative impact on native bird species and ecosystems. It is crucial to monitor the effectiveness of these measures and adjust them accordingly to ensure long-term success in managing starling populations.

Why Are European Starlings Considered Pest Birds?

European Starlings are considered pest birds due to their aggressive behavior and negative impact on the environment. Why are European Starlings considered pest birds? Here are some reasons why they are considered pests:

• Destruction of crops: European Starlings are known to feed on a wide variety of crops, including fruits, grains, and vegetables. Their large flocks can cause significant damage to agricultural fields, leading to financial losses for farmers.
• Competition with native birds: Due to their invasive nature and ability to adapt to different habitats, European Starlings often compete with native bird species for nesting sites and food sources. This competition can result in the decline of indigenous bird populations.
• Spread of diseases: European Starlings are carriers of various diseases that can be transmitted to other bird species and even humans. These diseases include avian influenza and salmonellosis. Their large roosting sites can also create unsanitary conditions, increasing the risk of disease transmission.
• Damage to infrastructure: The acidic droppings of European Starlings can corrode buildings, statues, and vehicles. Their nests may also block gutters and vents, leading to potential structural damage and fire hazards.
• Airplane hazards: European Starlings are known to pose a threat to aircraft due to their large population size and flocking behavior. A collision between a bird and an aircraft can cause severe damage and jeopardize the safety of passengers and crew.

Managing European Starling populations is essential to mitigate their negative impacts and protect ecosystems and human activities.

Methods for Managing European Starlings

1. When it comes to managing European starlings, there are various methods that can be employed:
2. One of the techniques for managing European starlings is through the use of harassment methods. These methods involve making the environment uncomfortable or undesirable for the birds. Loud noises, such as pyrotechnics or alarms, can be used to scare away the European starlings. Visual deterrents, such as scarecrows or reflective objects, can also effectively deter them from an area.
3. Exclusion methods are another effective way to manage European starlings. These methods aim to prevent the birds from accessing certain areas. This can be accomplished by sealing off openings or installing nets, screens, or wire mesh barriers. By blocking potential nesting sites or roosting areas, the presence of European starlings can be effectively discouraged.
4. Trapping and removal is a method that can be utilized for managing European starling populations. Live traps can be used to capture the birds, after which they can either be released in a more suitable location or humanely euthanized.
5. Chemical repellents can also be employed as a means of managing European starlings. These repellents emit odors or tastes that are unpleasant to the birds, making them seek alternative locations for roosting or nesting.
6. An effective approach for managing European starling populations is through integrated pest management. This strategy combines several methods, including harassment techniques, exclusion methods, trapping, and chemical repellents. By utilizing a comprehensive approach, the impact of European starlings can be controlled and reduced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the European Starling originate from?

The European Starling originates from Europe and is native to Great Britain.

How did the European Starling end up in the United States?

In 1890, Eugene Schieffelin, a Shakespeare enthusiast, released 60 European Starlings into the wild in the United States as part of a project to introduce all birds mentioned in Shakespeare’s work.

How many European Starlings are estimated to be in the United States?

The current estimated population of European Starlings in the United States is around 140 million birds.

What are the characteristics of European Starlings?

European Starlings are medium-sized songbirds with stocky bodies, short tails with square tips, and pointed wings. They have glossy black to brown plumage with white speckles in winter, a stout yellow bill, reddish-orange legs and feet, and a metallic sheen of green and purple on their back, breast, and belly.

How do European Starlings impact the environment?

European Starlings pose a risk to the environment and other species. They destroy crops and infrastructure, outcompete native birds for nesting spots, and carry diseases harmful to humans and animals.

Where can European Starlings be found?

European Starlings can be found in various habitats such as agricultural areas, coastlands, disturbed areas, natural forests, planted forests, range/grasslands, riparian zones, scrub/shrublands, tundra, urban areas, and wetlands. They have adapted well to different environments, which has contributed to their spread across the lower 48 states of the continental United States.