European starling

The European starling is not a native bird. Roughly a hundred were released in New York City in 1890 and 1891, and their descendants have since spread right across the continent, including Manitoba, where they are common around farms, towns, and cities.

In the breeding season, adults are glossy black with a purple-and-green sheen and a bright yellow bill. In fall and winter, they are covered in pale speckles and the bill turns dark. Starlings are accomplished mimics, with a long song of whistles, clicks, and borrowed calls, and they often gather in big, noisy flocks.

I love how the iridescence changes with the light, so what looks plain black from a distance turns out to be purple, green, and bronze up close.

To find out more about the european starling and the places it lives, visit All About Birds.

European starling Manitoba sightings

Where and when you can find the european starling in Manitoba depends on the season and the habitat. You can see more species in the Manitoba birds section.

Back to Manitoba bird photography, or see the portfolio.