European Starling

Sturnus vulgaris

Originally a Eurasian species introduced into New York's Central Park in 1890, the European Starling is now abundant throughout the United States and into Southern Canada.   Unfortunately, it competes with native species for nesting locations, causing a population decline for species such as the Eastern Bluebird and Red-headed Woodpecker.  European Starlings are quite gregarious, and may form very large flocks.

Habitat: Urban centers, farmsteads and farm fields, or other disturbed areas.  Much less common in extensive natural settings such as unbroken forest, shrub/grassland, or desert.

Diet: Wide variety of items, including insects, earthworms, seeds, fruits, and berries. Seems to prefer insects when they are available. 

Behavior: Primarily forages on the ground, but a variety of foraging techniques are used.  They will also climb through foliage for fruit, and glean insects from foliage and twigs.  European Starlings also will fly-catch occasionally, observing from a perch and flying out to capture passing flying insects.

Nesting: May through June

Breeding Map: Breeding bird survey map

Song: European Starling Song

Migration: Some do move south in the fall, while others remain year-round. 

Similar Species: Superficially similar to some blackbird species.

Feeders: Suet, seeds, peanuts, bread, and many other items.

Birdhouses: Will use bluebird-sized or larger nest boxes.

Conservation Status: Common and widespread

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, European Starling

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - European Starling"

3) eNature.com: European Starling

Photo Information: April 11th, 2005 - Brandon, South Dakota - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution European Starling photos.