Preferred Seed:
Sunflower seed, Millet, Cracked corn
Description:
The European Starling is a medium sized, highly adaptable bird often seen in large flocks across fields, cities, and neighborhoods. Introduced to North America in the late 1800s, starlings quickly spread across the continent and are now one of the most common birds in many areas.
Feeder Type:
Hopper, Platform, Ground
Nesting:
European Starlings nest in cavities such as tree holes, building openings, vents, and nest boxes. They build bulky nests made of grasses, feathers, and plant material.
Identification:
European Starlings appear glossy black with an iridescent sheen of green and purple. In winter they are covered with small white spots. They have short tails, pointed yellow bills during breeding season, and pinkish legs. Males and females look very similar.
Song Description:
A noisy mix of whistles, clicks, and rattles. European Starlings are talented mimics and can imitate the sounds of other birds and even mechanical noises.
How to Attract:
• Offer mixed seed blends that contain sunflower or millet
• Use platform or hopper feeders
• Provide open feeding areas where flocks can gather
• Keep feeders clean to help prevent disease spread
Fun Fact:
All European Starlings in North America descend from about 100 birds released in New York City's Central Park in 1890.
Residency:
Year round resident across most of the United States and southern Canada. European Starlings do not migrate far and often remain near reliable food sources throughout the year.
Region:
Southern Canada, United States, Northern Mexico
Range Map:
Range Map © Chirp Nook
Best Seed Blend For
European Starling
European Starling
