Sturnidae

Starlings are small to medium-sized passerine birds known for their dark, glossy plumage and complex vocalizations, including the ability to mimic sounds. They belong to the family Sturnidae, with 128 species across 36 genera, native to Europe, Asia, Africa, northern Australia, and the tropical Pacific. Many have been introduced to North America, Hawaii, and New Zealand, where they are considered invasive.

These gregarious birds exhibit strong, direct flight and prefer open habitats, feeding on insects and fruit. Their nests are typically found in holes, and their eggs can be blue or white. Starlings use “open-bill probing” to access food in crevices, and their diverse vocalizations can incorporate ambient sounds like car alarms.

Size varies, with Kenrick’s starling being the smallest at 15 cm (6 in) and the Nias hill myna the largest at 36 cm (14 in). Most species are iridescent, with minimal sexual dimorphism, and eye colors differ with age.

They occupy various habitats worldwide, thrive in urban areas, and can be migratory, such as Shelley’s starling. The European starling was introduced to North America in the late 19th century.

Starlings are known for their remarkable murmurations, where flocks perform synchronized movements to deter predators. These displays can last from seconds to 45 minutes and involve thousands of birds.

Their diet consists mainly of fruits and insects, with some species acting as important seed dispersers. They can also feed on fermenting fruit, metabolizing alcohol efficiently, and certain starlings, like the slender-billed starling, contribute to pollination.