European Starling Identification
What Do European Starlings Look Like?
European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are medium-sized, stocky birds with short tails and long, yellow slender beaks. In non-breeding plumage, they have glossy black feathers with iridescent purple and green sheens, while in breeding plumage, their feathers may appear speckled with white. During the breeding season, adults may develop yellow markings around their eyes. Juveniles have duller plumage with brown streaks.
Unsure if it’s a European Starling? Take a look at some other common birds in North Carolina.
Signs of a European Starling Infestation
Signs of a European Starling infestation include large flocks gathering on rooftops, trees, or utility lines, especially during the evening hours. Accumulations of droppings underneath roosting areas can indicate their presence. Damage to crops, gardens, or fruit trees may occur as they forage for food. Additionally, the loud and persistent vocalizations of starlings can be a sign of their roosting or nesting activities nearby.
Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Impact
Where Do European Starlings Live?
Starlings can survive in both hot and cold environments, are not fearful of humans, and can become quite comfortable in urban environments where food and shelter are readily available to them. In rural areas, starlings are found in open fields, orchards, and farms. In cities and suburbs, starlings have adapted well, where they utilize a multitude of nesting sites including building ledges, lighted signs, and lamp posts, as well as dryer and stove exhaust ducts and vents. Starlings prefer to roost in tree cavities or small crevices but will choose an attic if these natural habitats are not available.
Diet of a European Starling
European Starlings have a diverse diet, consisting primarily of insects and fruits. During the breeding season, they feed on a wide variety of insects, including beetles, caterpillars, grasshoppers, and spiders, which they forage for on the ground or in vegetation. Outside of the breeding season, starlings consume fruits, berries, grains, and seeds, often raiding agricultural fields or orchards. They are also opportunistic feeders, scavenging for food scraps in urban areas and at bird feeders.
Life Cycle of a European Starling
The life cycle of a European Starling begins with courtship displays in late winter to early spring, where males perform aerial displays and sing to attract mates. After pairing, females lay a clutch of 4-6 eggs in a nest typically in tree hollows, crevices, or man-made structures. Incubation lasts about 12 days, and both parents share in feeding the chicks, which fledge around 21 days after hatching. European Starlings can have multiple broods in a single breeding season.
Impact of a European Starlings
In addition to being obnoxious and loud when in groups, starlings can cause property damage. Unsightly starling droppings can eat away at pavement and asphalt, and dried droppings have been known to cause asthma. Additionally, European starlings are capable of transmitting several diseases like cryptococcosis, E. coli, and salmonella. Their nesting habits on roofs, within soffits, dryer vents, and attics can cause structural damage and create dangerous fire hazards. Lawns infested with turf insects are likely to be visited by thousands of starlings, which feed on the insects, and in the process, punch thousands of unsightly holes in the sod.
European starlings roosting on your property? Contact our professional bird pest control exterminator immediately.
Are European Starlings Aggressive?
European Starlings can exhibit aggressive behavior, particularly towards other cavity-nesting birds when competing for nesting sites. They may also compete aggressively for food sources, especially in urban environments where resources are limited. Additionally, during the breeding season, male starlings may engage in territorial disputes with other males.
While not inherently aggressive towards humans, they can display territorial and competitive behaviors towards other bird species.
European Starling Prevention Tips
To prevent European Starling infestations:
- Secure Openings: Seal off gaps and openings in buildings, vents, and eaves to prevent starlings from accessing nesting sites.
- Bird Deterrents: Contact professional bird control to install deterrents such as bird spikes, netting, or wire mesh around potential roosting and nesting areas.
- Limit Food Sources: Clean up spilled birdseed, avoid leaving pet food outside, and use bird feeders designed to discourage larger birds like starlings.
- Maintain Landscape: Trim trees and shrubs near buildings to reduce nesting sites and eliminate perches.
- Employ Scare Tactics: Use visual deterrents like reflective tape or scarecrows to discourage starlings from roosting or nesting.
Contact your local Bug Out bird control experts.
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FAQs
Are European Starlings invasive in the US?
Yes, European Starlings are considered invasive in the United States. They were introduced to North America in the late 19th century and have since spread rapidly across the continent, competing with native bird species for nesting sites and food resources, and causing agricultural damage.
Are European Starlings endangered?
European Starlings are not endangered; in fact, they are one of the most abundant bird species in the world. Their populations have thrived due to their adaptability, generalist feeding habits, and ability to exploit human-altered environments.
Why are they called European Starlings?
European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are named so because they are native to Europe, where they are widespread and commonly found. Their name “European” distinguishes them from other species of starlings found in different regions of the world.
