STARLING
PR

The starling is not native to the United States but was introduced here from Europe in 1890-91. During that time more than a hundred birds were released at Central Park in New York City. From this area they spread throughout the country and now are numbered in the hundreds of thousands.

The gigantic increase of the starling is due primarily to its fecundity and its general ability to take care of itself even at the expense of other birds. It is extremely pugnacious and has no compunction about taking over living premises from any hole-nesting bird. Like the house sparrow, it also nests in barns, eaves of houses, or nearly any other nook and cranny available. Sometimes two broods of four to six birds are raised in a year.

The starling is iridescent black with gleamings of green, blue and purple. It is eight inches long, very hardy and muscular. A short tail and bright yellow bill are reliable identification marks. It does not hop like most birds but walks like a marine sergeant inspecting troops.

There is no doubt that the starlings are here to stay. In great numbers, they are capable of much damage, particularly to crops. Also objectionable is the fact that they roost in large flocks, frequently in suburban areas. When this occurs, damage is done to shrubbery, houses and cars by the eliminations from the birds.

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