Starling, (Common), Sturnus vulgaris
Family: Sturnidae (Rafinesque, 1815)
Length: 21cm Wingspan: 37 to 42cm Weight: 75 to 90p Lifespan up to 5 years.
Mainly a winter visitor here in Spain.
This Starling is recognised more as the “Common Starling” and is a widespread Species across most of Europe. In Europe the other main species of Starling is the “Spotless Starling;” Unlike the high diversity of species across Asian countries.
Starlings inhabit a wide range of habitats from the Arctic Circle to the Equator. They have adapted well to human intrusion, taking advantage of urbanisations structures, especially in cities and towns. Farmland, orchards, woodlands,
More in the northern countries of Europe, they are seen in vast flocks, more regularly in the winter months. As they skilfully fly fast and very close together in their hundreds and thousands, with flight pauses of gliding, in between. This is a marvellous spectacle to see, mainly before they settle, to roost at night.
Feeding on a wide range of insects, invertebrate animals, especially grubs and worms; seeds, many types of fruits, including berries.
Nesting: A loosely woven nest made up of various grasses, lined with roots, wool and feathers, usually hidden in the cavity of a tree or building structure; will also easily take to nesting in large wooden nest boxes. 4 to 7 light blue eggs are laid, 1 or 2 broods a year, in most countries in Europe, that are north of Spain.