About This Species
A highly adaptable and successful introduced species in North America, the European Starling is known for its stunning iridescent plumage, remarkable vocal abilities, and massive winter roosts.
Fun Facts
- Shakespeare connection: All North American starlings descended from about 100 birds released in New York's Central Park in 1890-1891 as part of an effort to introduce all birds mentioned in Shakespeare's works.
- Master mimics: European Starlings are exceptional vocal mimics, capable of imitating the sounds of other birds, car alarms, and even human speech.
- Iridescent beauty: Their plumage appears speckled in winter but becomes glossy and iridescent in breeding season, displaying stunning purples and greens.
- Murmuration displays: Starlings are famous for their breathtaking aerial displays called murmurations, where thousands of birds fly in coordinated patterns at dusk.
