European Starling (Common Starling)

The European Starling is a medium-sized songbird with a stocky build, short tail, and long, pointed bill. During breeding season, adults are glossy black with metallic purple and green sheens, while winter plumage features striking white spots. Known for massive murmurations and exceptional mimicry.

Dark brownish-black base color with prominent white or buff tip spots (spangling) and strong purple and green iridescence under direct light, typical of fresh non-breeding adult plumage.

Pennaceous upper vane with tightly interlocked barbs and barbicels, transitioning to a slightly plumulaceous base with a small, rudimentary afterfeather. Barbs are intact and well-maintained.

Slender, white-to-light-grey central rachis that is slightly curved near the base. Barbs are densely packed, angled outward at roughly 45 degrees, showing distinct color zones.

Smooth, glossy, and silky with high structural reflectivity giving it a metallic sheen.

Breast or upper back contour feather, determined by its triangular shape, stiff interlocking barbs, and characteristic iridescent coloration.

Dark iridescent black coloration combined with distinct white terminal spots and a pointed contour feather shape.

Highly adaptable, found in urban areas, agricultural fields, suburban backyards, open woodlands, and grasslands.

Native to temperate Eurasia, introduced globally and now found extensively across North America, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

Acts as an insectivore consuming agricultural pests, but can also be an aggressive invasive species competing with native cavity-nesting birds.

Other black-colored passerines such as Cowbirds or Grackles, though starlings are uniquely distinguished by their speckled tips and intense iridescence.

Starlings are master mimics, able to imitate the calls of dozens of other bird species as well as mechanical sounds like car alarms and sirens. Their synchronized flight displays called murmurations are world-famous.

Introduced to North America by enthusiasts who wanted to bring all the birds mentioned in Shakespeare's works to Central Park. They are rarely used in traditional crafts due to their invasive status.

Look in backyards, lawns, and near roosting sites. Frequently found mixed with other common urban birds.

Good condition, fresh appearance with minimal wear and intact barbs.

Backyard