Coastal BC Birds: European Starling
European Starling
When I visited Granville Island in Vancouver, BC, mixed in with the seagulls and ravens scavenging the grounds, I found quite a few European Starlings. With so many places to shop and eat, there was quite the buffet in the open compost containers and on the ground.
Starlings are well know for flying in large flocks, but these were in small groups and pairs trying to make a living off human leavings. Also known as Common Starlings, they were brought to North America in the 19th Century. Now they are one of most common songbird, often forcing out native species with their sheer numbers and aggressive behaviour. This guy still has his spotted winter plumage. Guess the cold spring has him fooled a bit. -- Margy
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Starlings are the bully birds of the garden. When they descend no one else gets a look in at the food. They will eat everything! Xx
ReplyDeleteFran - They were holding their own against the seagulls scavenging for food around the market. - Margy
ReplyDeleteI have seen starlings before but this one is so colorful.
ReplyDeleteGood old Starlings. We only get a few out here. I think they like city living better. MB
ReplyDeleteI love their spotted winter plumage! I'm fascinated by open compost bins...they are on street corners like garbage cans? If so, that is brilliant!!!
ReplyDeleteGreat shot!
ReplyDeleteWhat a delightful bird!
ReplyDelete