Sturnus
vulgaris
(European
starling)
Physical
Description:
Length 8.5".
Adults in breeding plumage
are Iridescent blue-black, with a yellow
bill. In fresh fall plumage they are black with spotted edges on the feathers,
giving a speckled appearance, and black bill. Juveniles are brown with faint
streaks on their breast. Tail appears short.
Similar species- Western Meadowlark in shape, and Purple Martin in flight.
Song:
Makes a chirping
and click sound.
Distribution:
Common
throughout Idaho with the exception of higher mountainous areas in central Idaho.
Habitat:
Open
country, especially associated with human development. Often in huge flocks
with blackbirds in the fall and winter around feed lots.
Diet:
Insects
and other invertebrates, as well as Russian olives and other fruits. Probes
into ground by spreading soil with bill, and mimics other species while feeding.
Ecology:
Introduced
to New York City in 1890 and spread throughout the United States and southern
Canada. Bold and aggressive, often taking nesting holes from other species.
Reproduction:
Secondary
cavity nester. monogamous, but parasitizes (i.e.
lays eggs in) other starling nests. Lays 3-5 eggs, incubated by both sexes for
12-16 days. Young remain in the nest for 18-21 days.
Conservation:
| Element Code: | ABPBT01010 |
| Status: | Nongame species |
| Global Rank: | G5 |
| State Rank: | S? |
| National Rank: | NE5 |
Important
State References:
No references are available at this time.