Taxonomy

Sturnus vulgaris | Common Starling | Druid

Distribution

Status

Conservation status

Birdwatch Ireland's Countryside Bird Survey show that the breeding population of Starling has remaind stable since 1998.

Species Biology

Identification

A noisy energetic bird. From a distance it looks all black with a bright pointed bill, but at close quarters, its plumage has a green/purplish metallic sheen on black with lighter dots. It appears much slimmer than blackbirds, with a short pointed tail. 

Preferred environment

Starling can be found in almost any habitat whereever there are some trees and building or other human-made strutures for breeding. They are one of the most widespread species in Ireland. 

Adult habitat & habits

It is highly gregarous so it is most often seen in flocks, sometimes large flocks. In winter very large numbers can assemble at roosting sites and their aerial displays, called murmurations, are sometimes a hugley spectacular sight. 

Diet

Starling feed on a wide variety of foods, including insects, berries and food scraps.  

Habitat

Starling have a strong association with human habitat, and are commonly found in urban areas, parks, gardens and around farmyards. 

Distribution

World distribution(GBIF)

Temporal change

Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024

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