Backyard Birds of Southern Ontario

European starling

The European starling is not native to North America, but was brought here by English settlers. Starlings are related to blackbirds, but have a stubby tail. They are about the same size as a robin. The adults have a speckled appearance: their plumage is dark brown and white all over. The juvenile is gray-brown in colour.

European starlings are enthusiastic seed eaters and are commonly found eating on the ground, where they may be joined by red-winged blackbirds, common grackles and mourning doves. They move about on the ground at a rapid pace, pecking vigorously at the grass. Juveniles can be rather loud when they want to be fed.

I have yet to see starlings visit the bird bath.

Quick Quiz Question

Eating from feeders and on the ground

This compilation video features various starlings, either alone in groups, eating on the ground and at the feeder.

The video is hosted on YouTube because of its large file size. New segments will be added weekly.