Starling

[Terry]

According to the latest RSPB figures the number of Starlings has dropped by 83% since 1979

[Paul]

They have amazing colours. Such a shame, but the mermurations they perform still happen, so hopefully the decline won't be getting worse.

 

 

Paul.

[NannyFerret]

That's a lovely shot.

 

I will be glad when the work is finished outside the house so that we can start feeding the birds properly again.
They have stayed away while it's been going on and the scaffolding still up in the garden.

[FUJI]

Thankfully, our bird feeder is a regular venue for a small flock of Starlings, they tend to shoot in like a gang of unruly teenagers turning up uninvited to a party.......all other birds scatter, as they raid the feeder in a most untidy manner......good to watch them though.

Am I right in thinking that the Starling, is the bird closest to its Dinosaur/lizard ancestors, because their wings are almost scaly?

FUJI

[Terry]

They have amazing colours. Such a shame, but the mermurations they perform still happen, so hopefully the decline won't be getting worse.

 

 

Paul.

I remember the first mermuration I saw, It was while I was crossing the Runcorn Bridge many years ago. Fantastic sight

 

Thankfully, our bird feeder is a regular venue for a small flock of Starlings, they tend to shoot in like a gang of unruly teenagers turning up uninvited to a party.......all other birds scatter, as they raid the feeder in a most untidy manner......good to watch them though.

Am I right in thinking that the Starling, is the bird closest to its Dinosaur/lizard ancestors, because their wings are almost scaly?

FUJI

 

Agree about the unruly teenager angle but I've noticed when they turn so do all the Sparrows, Blackbird and Robin waiting for all the food they scatter. Never heard about the scaly wings though

[Black Pearl]

Brilliant.

[Paul]

Two sheppies attacking the fat feeder this afternoon. As noted, making an awful mess and so roughshod over the birds.

 

Paul.

[Guest]

Nice! Aren't they gorgeous.

[ChrisLumix]

The way clouds of them form in urban twilights towards Christmas is just awesome.