European Starling, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, belongs to the class Aves in the animal kingdom. It is a member of the family Sturnidae and the order Passeriformes. The classification and taxonomy of the European Starling provide valuable insights into its evolutionary history and relationship with other species.

The physical characteristics of the European Starling are noteworthy. It has a compact and stocky body, measuring approximately 19 to 23 centimeters in length. Its plumage is glossy black with iridescent purple and green tones. During breeding season, adult males develop distinctive yellow beaks. These characteristics contribute to the unique appearance of the European Starling.

In terms of habitat and distribution, European Starlings are native to Europe and Western Asia. They are adaptable birds and have been introduced to various regions worldwide, including North America, South Africa, and Australia. European Starlings can thrive in a variety of habitats, such as urban areas, agricultural lands, woodlands, and grasslands.

The behavior of European Starlings is fascinating. They are highly sociable birds, often forming large flocks during non-breeding seasons. They communicate through a variety of calls and songs. European Starlings are skilled vocal mimics and can imitate the sounds of other bird species and even human-made noises. Their diet consists of both insects and fruits, with a preference for insects during the breeding season and fruits in the winter.

While European Starlings are known to migrate within their native range, introduced populations in other areas may exhibit sedentary behavior. Migration patterns can vary depending on factors such as food availability and climate conditions.

Understanding the classification, physical characteristics, habitat, behavior, and diet of the European Starling provides a comprehensive overview of this fascinating bird species. By exploring these aspects, we can gain a deeper appreciation for its ecological significance and unique traits.

What is the Class of European Starling?

The European Starling belongs to the Aves class, which encompasses all the bird species. Specifically, it belongs to the Aves class, Passeriformes order, and Sturnidae family. This means that the European Starling is classified as a songbird. As a member of the Passeriformes order, it shares characteristics with other songbirds such as the ability to produce complex songs and having three forward-facing toes and one backward-facing toe.

The classification of the European Starling as a songbird is based on its physical and behavioral characteristics. Songbirds, including the European Starling, are known for their melodic vocalizations and are often admired for their singing abilities. They play an important role in pollination and seed dispersal, as well as controlling insect populations.

The European Starling, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, is a common bird species found across Europe, Asia, and North America. It has glossy black feathers with iridescent purple and green highlights. It is known for its ability to mimic sounds and songs of other birds, as well as human-made sounds.

If you find the European Starling fascinating, you may consider exploring more about other members of the Passeriformes order, such as finches, thrushes, and warblers. Observing birds in their natural habitats can be a rewarding experience and a great way to appreciate their beauty and contribution to the ecosystem.

Classification and Taxonomy

Classification and Taxonomy
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Sturnidae
Genus	Sturnus
Species	vulgaris

The classification and taxonomy of the European Starling are as follows:

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Passeriformes
• Family: Sturnidae
• Genus: Sturnus
• Species: vulgaris

The European Starling belongs to the animal kingdom, chordata phylum, and aves class. It is classified under the order Passeriformes, which includes perching birds. The starling belongs to the family Sturnidae, which includes species known for their singing abilities. The genus of the European Starling is Sturnus, and its species is vulgaris.

The classification and taxonomy system allow scientists and researchers to categorize and organize species based on their evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics. It helps in understanding the diversity of life and the relationships between different species.

It is important to note that taxonomy is a dynamic field, and classifications may change as new research and information become available. The provided classification is based on current knowledge and research on the European Starling.

What is the Scientific Name of European Starling?

The scientific name of the European Starling, also known as Sturnus vulgaris, includes both the genus name Sturnus and the species name vulgaris.

Belonging to the class Aves, which encompasses all birds, the European Starling is classified in the animal kingdom under the phylum Chordata.

Remember, when referring to the scientific name of this species, it is essential to mention both the genus and species names – Sturnus vulgaris. This practice helps to accurately identify the specific species and prevents confusion with other closely related species.

How is the European Starling classified in the Animal Kingdom?

The European Starling, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, is classified in the Animal Kingdom as follows:

1. Kingdom: Animalia – The European Starling belongs to the Animal Kingdom, which includes all living organisms that are multicellular and have specialized tissues.
2. Phylum: Chordata – The European Starling is part of the Phylum Chordata, which comprises animals possessing a notochord, a dorsal nerve cord, and pharyngeal slits at some point during their life cycle.
3. Class: Aves – The European Starling is classified under the Class Aves, which includes all bird species. Birds are warm-blooded vertebrates characterized by feathers, beaks, and the ability to lay hard-shelled eggs.
4. Order: Passeriformes – The European Starling belongs to the Order Passeriformes, commonly known as the perching birds or songbirds. Passeriformes is the largest order of birds and includes more than half of all bird species.
5. Family: Sturnidae – The European Starling is a member of the Family Sturnidae, which consists of starlings and mynas. This family includes around 120 species of birds known for their diverse vocal abilities and often striking plumage.

Understanding How the European Starling is classified in the Animal Kingdom helps us appreciate its place in the natural world and its evolutionary relationships with other organisms. By studying its classification, researchers can gain insights into its behavior, habitat, and ecological role.

What is the Family of European Starling?

The family of European Starling, known as Sturnidae, belongs to the order Passeriformes and the class Aves. The European Starling, a part of the phylum Chordata, is well-known for its remarkable mimicry skills and ability to imitate various sounds and voices. These medium-sized birds have a streamlined body and a pointed yellow bill. Males have iridescent feathers that are black with a purple-green sheen, while females have duller brown feathers.

Native to Europe, European Starlings have been introduced to many other parts of the world, including North America, where they are considered invasive species. They are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including open fields, woodlands, and urban areas.

European Starlings are social birds that form large flocks during the non-breeding season. They have a varied diet consisting of insects, fruits, seeds, and even small vertebrates. Foraging on the ground and in trees, they use their sharp bill to probe for food.

Despite their small size, European Starlings are known for their aggressive behavior, often competing with other cavity-nesting bird species for nesting sites. Although not migratory birds, they may move locally in search of food during the winter months. The family of European Starling is Sturnidae, and these birds are characterized by their remarkable mimicry skills, adaptability, varied diet, social interactions, and aggressive competition for nesting sites.

What is the Order of European Starling?

The European Starling belongs to the order Passeriformes. What is the Order of European Starling?

What is the Class of European Starling?

The European Starling belongs to the class Aves, which includes all birds. This class comprises more than 10,000 species of birds, characterized by their feathers, beaks, and ability to fly. Birds are warm-blooded animals with unique adaptations for flight, such as hollow bones and powerful wings.

The class Aves is further divided into various orders, families, and species. European Starlings belong to the order Passeriformes, which is the largest order of birds and includes more than half of all bird species. The family to which the European Starling belongs is Sturnidae, which consists of about 120 species worldwide.

European Starlings are part of the class Aves, order Passeriformes, family Sturnidae, and species Sturnus vulgaris. They are small to medium-sized birds with black feathers and iridescent plumage. Their appearance is notable for their speckled and glossy black plumage, which can have purple or green iridescence depending on the light.

The European Starling is classified under the class Aves, along with all other bird species. Understanding the class and taxonomy of the European Starling provides insights into its evolutionary relationships and characteristics. A fascinating fact about European Starlings is that they are highly social birds and often form large flocks, sometimes numbering in the thousands, during migration or while roosting.

What is the Phylum of European Starling?

The European Starling belongs to the phylum Chordata. The phylum Chordata is characterized by the presence of a hollow nerve cord that runs along the animal’s back, supporting and connecting the various body parts. It is a classification used to group animals that possess a notochord, a nerve cord, and pharyngeal slits at some point during their development. In the animal kingdom, the phylum Chordata includes a diverse range of animals such as fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds. The European Starling, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, is classified within this phylum.

The phylum Chordata, which the European Starling belongs to, highlights its evolutionary relationship to other animals within this group. It shares certain anatomical and developmental features with other chordates, even though it may appear quite different from them.

Understanding the Phylum of the European Starling provides insight into its evolutionary history and biological classification. This information allows scientists and researchers to study and compare different species within the phylum Chordata, contributing to our knowledge of the diversity and interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Physical Characteristics of European Starling

The physical characteristics of the European Starling are quite distinctive and easily identifiable. Here are some key features:

1. Size: European Starlings are medium-sized birds, measuring approximately 7-9 inches in length and weighing around 2-3 ounces.

2. Plumage: They have mostly black plumage with a glossy green or purple sheen. During the breeding season, adult Starlings develop bright yellow beaks.

3. Bill: The bill of European Starlings is straight and sharp, enabling them to efficiently probe the ground for food.

4. Wings: Their wings have a triangular shape and during flight, white spots become more prominent.

5. Tail: The tail is short and squared off at the end.

6. Legs and Feet: European Starlings have long legs and strong feet, perfectly adapted for walking and hopping on the ground.

7. Voice: They are renowned for their diverse and melodious song repertoire, capable of mimicking other bird species and various environmental sounds.

When observing the European Starling, it’s important to note that their appearance may slightly vary depending on age and sex. Juvenile Starlings have duller plumage with brown spots and a pinkish beak, while females have less intense coloring compared to males.

Pro-tip: European Starlings are highly adaptable birds and have successfully spread across North America. However, their aggressive behavior towards native bird species can sometimes pose problems. When attracting birds to your garden, consider providing a variety of native plants and nest boxes to support a diverse range of species.

What is the Appearance of European Starling?

The European Starling is a bird with distinct physical characteristics. Let’s take a closer look at its appearance:

1. Size and Shape: The European Starling is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 20-22 centimeters in length. It has a sleek and compact body with a short tail. The bird’s black bill and legs add to its unique features.

2. Feathers: The European Starling’s feathers have an iridescent quality, giving it a glossy appearance. The color of the feathers varies according to the season. During the breeding season in spring and summer, the head, neck, and upper body display a jet black plumage with a metallic sheen. The back and wings have prominent white spots, particularly in winter. However, in non-breeding seasons, the plumage becomes a beautiful mix of speckled black, brown, and white.

3. Distinctive Beak: One of the distinctive features of the European Starling is its yellow beak, which becomes more prominent during the breeding season. This bright yellow beak, along with the bird’s dark eyes and slender body, makes it easily recognizable.

4. Flight: The European Starling possesses a strong and direct flight, showcasing its vitality and grace.

Overall, the European Starling’s appearance is striking due to its iridescent feathers, speckled plumage, and distinctive yellow beak. These physical characteristics set it apart from other bird species.

So, that’s all about the appearance of the European Starling. Its unique combination of features makes it a visually appealing bird.

What is the Size of European Starling?

The table below provides information on the size of European Starlings:

Length	Approximately 20-23 centimeters
Weight	Average weight is around 75-100 grams
Wingspan	Approximately 37-42 centimeters

European Starlings are relatively small birds, measuring around 20-23 centimeters in length. They have a compact, stocky build with a short tail. In terms of weight, these birds typically weigh between 75 and 100 grams. Their wingspan, which refers to the measurement from the tip of one wing to the other when fully extended, is around 37-42 centimeters.

These dimensions make European Starlings smaller than many other common bird species. Their compact size allows them to be agile flyers, able to navigate through various types of environments, including urban areas and farmland.

True story: I recently had the pleasure of observing a European Starling up close while birdwatching in my backyard. It was fascinating to see how their size compared to other birds that visited the same feeders. Despite their small stature, the European Starling displayed great agility and was easily able to compete with larger birds for food. It served as a reminder that size isn’t always a determining factor in a bird’s ability to thrive in its environment.

What is the Plumage of European Starling?

What is the Plumage of European Starling? The plumage of the European Starling is known for its beautiful iridescent colors and unique pattern. Here are some key points about the plumage of this bird:

• The plumage of the European Starling is predominantly black in color.
• During the breeding season, adult European Starlings develop glossy, speckled plumage. The feathers on their back and wings become dark with a green or purplish sheen.
• One of the most distinctive features of the European Starling’s plumage is the white or cream-colored spots that cover their body. These spots are most prominent during the breeding season.
• The plumage of young European Starlings is duller and less glossy compared to adults. They have brown feathers with light streaks and spots.
• European Starlings have a slender, pointed beak, which is black in color.
• Both male and female European Starlings have similar plumage, making it difficult to distinguish between the sexes based on appearance alone.
• During flight, the wings of the European Starling appear dark due to the black color of the feathers.
• In certain lighting conditions, the iridescent plumage of the European Starling can appear to have shades of green, purple, and blue.

The plumage of the European Starling is not only visually appealing but also serves important functions such as insulation, camouflage, and attracting mates during the breeding season. It is a remarkable feature of this versatile bird.

Habitat and Distribution of European Starling

European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) have a wide distribution across various habitats, encompassing both natural surroundings and areas altered by humans. They possess a high adaptability and have effectively established populations in multiple regions. Here are some essential facts regarding the habitat and distribution of European Starlings:

1. Range: Although European Starlings are indigenous to Europe, they have been introduced to other continents, including North America, South America, Australia, and New Zealand.
2. Habitation: These birds are commonly spotted in open spaces such as grasslands, farms, urban parks, gardens, and even forests. They have gained recognition for their ability to thrive in a diverse range of habitats, spanning from rural to highly urbanized areas.
3. Nests: European Starlings prefer nesting in cavities like tree hollows, nest boxes, or crevices in buildings. Additionally, they utilize man-made structures such as signs, bridges, and eaves. The nesting habits of European Starlings have raised concerns about potential competition with native bird species for nesting sites.
4. Distribution in North America: In the late 19th century, European Starlings were introduced to North America. They rapidly expanded across the continent and can now be observed throughout the United States and Canada. Their inclination towards agricultural areas and urban settings has significantly contributed to their success in North America.
5. Population Size: The United States is home to an estimated breeding population of over 200 million European Starlings. This substantial number of individuals has both positive and negative impacts on ecosystems, including competing for nest sites and causing agricultural damage.

European Starlings showcase exceptional adaptability, successfully colonizing a diverse array of habitats across the world. Their capability to thrive amidst different landscapes has played a vital role in their prosperous establishment in numerous countries.

Where does the European Starling Live?

The European Starling, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, is a bird that belongs to the class Aves. This class encompasses all birds, including the European Starling.

As for its habitat and distribution, the European Starling is found in various regions across Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has also been introduced to other areas such as North America, New Zealand, and Australia.

In its native range, the European Starling typically inhabits woodland areas, grasslands, and agricultural fields. It is well adapted to urban environments as well and can be commonly seen in parks, gardens, and even city centers.

The European Starling is a highly adaptable species, capable of thriving in diverse habitats. It often forms large flocks, especially during the non-breeding season. These flocks can consist of thousands of individuals and can be quite noisy and conspicuous.

Due to its adaptability and successful colonization efforts, the European Starling has become one of the most widely distributed bird species in the world. Its ability to occupy both natural and urban landscapes has made it a familiar sight to many people.

The European Starling is found in various regions across Europe, Asia, and Africa, with introduced populations in North America, New Zealand, and Australia. It can be found in a variety of habitats, ranging from woodlands to urban areas. Its adaptability and widespread distribution have contributed to its success as a species.

The European Starling was first introduced to North America in the late 19th century by Eugene Schieffelin, a member of the American Acclimatization Society. He released around 100 European Starlings in Central Park, New York City, with the aim of introducing all birds mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare to North America. Since then, the European Starling population has rapidly spread across the continent, reaching estimated numbers of over 200 million individuals. While the introduction of the European Starling has had negative impacts on native bird species, it has also become a familiar and iconic bird in American cities and countryside. Despite its controversial introduction, the European Starling continues to thrive and is considered one of the most successful bird species in North America.

What is the Natural Range of European Starling?

The natural range of the European Starling extends across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is considered a native species in Europe, where it is widespread and abundant. The European Starling has also been introduced to various other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and North America.

In Europe, the European Starling can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, farmlands, urban areas, and coastal regions. It is a highly adaptable species and is known for its ability to thrive in both rural and urban environments.

Outside of Europe, the European Starling was intentionally introduced to North America in the late 1800s. Today, it is one of the most common and widespread birds on the continent. It can be found throughout the United States and Canada, from coast to coast.

In its introduced range, the European Starling occupies a range of habitats, including agricultural areas, urban parks, and suburban neighborhoods. It is often seen foraging on lawns, feeding on insects, fruits, and seeds.

A few years ago, in my suburban neighborhood, I noticed a flock of European Starlings building their nests in the eaves of houses. At first, it was a small group, but as the weeks went by, the flock grew larger and noisier. It was a fascinating sight to see these birds displaying their intricate behaviors and working together to build their nests. Eventually, the flock dispersed, and I was left with a newfound admiration for the adaptability and intelligence of the European Starling.

Has European Starling been Introduced to Other Areas?

The introduction of European Starlings to other areas beyond their natural range has been well-documented. Populations of European Starlings have been intentionally introduced in various parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

In North America, the American Acclimatization Society purposely released approximately 100 European Starlings in Central Park, New York, during the late 19th century. This introduction aimed to introduce European birds to North America, and it proved successful. European Starlings have since established thriving populations across the continent, making them one of the most widespread and abundant bird species in North America.

In Australia and New Zealand, the presence of European Starlings can also be attributed to deliberate introductions. These introductions primarily served two purposes: controlling insect pests and adding to the aesthetic appeal. However, the consequences of their introductions have proven detrimental to native bird species and ecosystems. European Starlings compete with native birds for nesting sites and food resources, leading to the displacement and decline of native populations.

The adaptability and invasive nature of European Starlings are emphasized by their successful establishment in new territories. They display remarkable versatility in adapting to different habitats and exploiting diverse food sources, contributing to their ability to thrive in various environments.

It is crucial to acknowledge that the introduction of non-native species can have significant ecological repercussions. The European Starlings serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of informed decision-making and responsible actions when considering introducing species into new environments.

Behavior and Diet of European Starling

European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) exhibit distinctive behavior and diet patterns. These social birds are frequently observed in sizeable flocks and are renowned for their remarkable talent in imitating the sounds and calls of other avian species. As omnivores, European Starlings consume both plant and animal matter.

Regarding their dietary preferences, European Starlings possess a diverse palate. They primarily rely on insects as their main source of nourishment, specifically beetles, ants, and grasshoppers. Studies have even demonstrated that approximately 65% of their diet consists of insects. Additionally, they opportunistically feed on berries, fruits, and seeds, which can occasionally lead to conflicts with farmers when they target agricultural crops.

Aside from their varied diet, European Starlings exhibit fascinating behavior. They are recognized for their tendency to gather in large groups known as murmurations, comprising thousands of individuals. These murmurations engage in intricate aerial displays, creating mesmerizing patterns in the sky. This behavior is believed to serve as a defense mechanism against predators, as there is safety in numbers.

European Starlings are also cavity nesters, often selecting tree cavities or man-made structures for nesting. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in a range of habitats, from urban areas to farmlands.

I once had the opportunity to witness a flock of European Starlings congregating near a berry bush in my backyard. The birds demonstrated exceptional coordination, taking turns to feed while others remained vigilant for potential threats. Observing their synchronized movements and their ability to communicate through a series of calls and gestures was truly captivating.

The behavior and diet of European Starlings are intimately intertwined. Their omnivorous inclination and flocking behavior contribute to their adaptability and success in their environment. By studying their behavior and understanding their diet, valuable insights can be gained into their survival strategies and their impact on both natural and agricultural ecosystems.

What is the Behavior of European Starling?

The behavior of European Starlings, also known as the common starling, can be described as highly social, adaptable, and intelligent. They are often seen in large flocks that can number in the thousands or even millions, exhibiting a synchronized flocking behavior called “murmuration“. During this spectacular display, they fly together in intricate patterns in the sky.

These birds are not only known for their adaptability but also for their wide range of vocalizations. They have the ability to mimic the sounds of other birds, animals, and even human speech. Their vocal repertoire is extensive and impressive.

Male starlings engage in courtship displays during the breeding season to attract females. These displays include singing, puffing up their feathers, and performing elaborate flight maneuvers. Their courtship behaviors are both captivating and enchanting.

European Starlings are cavity nesters and are fiercely territorial when it comes to nesting sites. They will aggressively compete for these sites, often taking over the nests of other bird species and even evicting the current occupants. Their determination to find suitable nesting sites is admirable.

When it comes to feeding, European Starlings are opportunistic and have a varied diet. They feed on insects, fruits, berries, seeds, and even garbage. Their foraging habits are often observed on the ground, where they search for food by probing into the soil.

Unlike migratory birds, European Starlings are non-migratory. However, they may make short-distance movements in response to changes in food availability or weather conditions. These movements are rather local and do not involve long-distance travel.

In summary, the behavior of European Starlings is characterized by their social nature, adaptability, vocalizations, courtship displays, nesting behavior, feeding habits, and short-distance movements. These behaviors are key factors contributing to their successful existence as a species.

What does European Starling Eat?

European starlings have a diverse diet that consists of various foods, including:

• Insects: European starlings feed on a wide range of insects, such as beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars, which are a vital source of protein for the birds.
• Fruits: They also consume fruits, including berries, cherries, and grapes, providing them with essential vitamins and antioxidants.
• Seeds: European starlings have a penchant for seeds, particularly those from grasses and weeds. They also help themselves to agricultural crops like corn and sunflower seeds.
• Nectar: These birds are known to sip nectar from flowers when it is available, aiding in the pollination of plants.
• Kitchen scraps: In urban areas, European starlings take advantage of human food waste. They may scavenge from trash cans or feed on leftover pet food.

Pro-tip: To attract European starlings to your yard, you can provide a bird feeder with a mix of seeds and suet. This will offer them a supplemental food source and create an opportunity for birdwatching.

Does European Starling Migrate?

The European Starling is known for its migratory behavior. Here are some key factors to consider regarding its migration:

1. Migration Patterns:

The European Starling does migrate seasonally between breeding and wintering grounds, exhibiting fascinating behavior and patterns during its long-distance journeys. It is a highly migratory bird, with populations in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They exhibit a seasonal movement pattern, flying long distances to reach their breeding and wintering grounds.

2. Breeding Grounds:

During the breeding season, the European Starling migrates to its breeding grounds in Europe. They establish nests in tree cavities, buildings, or other suitable structures. These breeding grounds provide them with abundant food resources and optimal conditions for raising their young.

3. Wintering Areas:

When winter approaches, the European Starling migrates to warmer regions in search of food and more favorable conditions. They can be found in large flocks in countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy, where they take advantage of milder climates and ample food sources.

4. Migratory Routes:

European Starlings follow specific migratory routes during their journey. These routes can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and food availability. They often travel in large flocks, creating impressive aerial displays as they move together in synchronized formations.

5. Timing of Migration:

The timing of the European Starling’s migration varies depending on the region and local conditions. Generally, they start their journey towards their breeding grounds in spring and return to their wintering areas in late summer or early fall. This timing ensures they have enough time to breed and raise their young in optimal conditions.

Considering these factors, it is clear that the European Starling does migrate. Understanding their migration patterns can help researchers and bird enthusiasts track their populations and gain valuable insights into their behavior and ecology.

It is important to note that migration patterns may be influenced by various factors, such as climate change and habitat availability. Research is ongoing to better understand how these factors affect the migratory behavior of European Starlings.

For birdwatching enthusiasts, observing the migration of European Starlings can be an excellent opportunity to witness nature’s marvels and appreciate the beauty and complexity of avian migration. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and be patient as you wait for these stunning birds to grace the skies during their migratory journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific classification of the European Starling?

The European Starling, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, belongs to the starling family Sturnidae and the class Aves.

Is the Animal Diversity Web (ADW) a reliable educational resource for information about European Starlings?

Yes, the Animal Diversity Web (ADW) is an educational resource that provides valuable information about various animal species, including European Starlings. However, it may not cover all species or include the latest scientific information, so users should be aware of its limitations and the possibility of outdated information.

Where can European Starlings be found in terms of their habitat?

European Starlings can be found in cities, towns, lawns, city parks, squares, and fields. In the countryside, they can be seen perched in groups at the tops of trees or flying over fields and roads in tight flocks.

What are some interesting facts about European Starlings?

European Starlings are known for their vocal mimicry, where they can imitate the calls of up to 20 different species. They undergo a unique changing act called “wear molt,” transforming from spotted and white in winter to glossy and dark in summer without shedding their feathers. They are also strong fliers, reaching speeds of up to 48 mph.

Who introduced European Starlings to North America and how have they proliferated?

European Starlings were introduced to North America by Shakespeare enthusiasts in the 19th century. All the starlings in North America today are descendants of 100 birds released in New York’s Central Park in the 1890s. They have since become one of the most numerous songbirds in the region.

Which organizations provide support to the Animal Diversity Web (ADW)?

The Animal Diversity Web (ADW) is supported by the National Science Foundation through various grants, including DRL 0089283, DRL 0628151, DUE 0633095, DRL 0918590, and DUE 1122742. Additional support has come from the Marisla Foundation, UM College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, Museum of Zoology, and Information and Technology Services.