European Starling

Description:

-- This photo is of a European Starling fledgling. *Adult Description: Starlings are 7.5-9 inches long. At a distance, starlings look black: However, in summer they are purplish-green iridescent with yellow beaks; in winter plumage they are brown and covered in brilliant white spots. *Juveniles are dull greyish-brown overall.

Habitat:

*Specific Habitat: I observed this fledgling European Starling in its nest inside a cavity in a poplar tree. * General Habitat: Starlings are common in towns, suburbs, and countryside near human settlements. They feed on the ground on lawns, fields, sidewalks, and parking lots. They perch and roost high on wires, trees, and buildings.

Notes:

-- I observed this fledgling European Starling over the course of several days. During that time, it could often be heard calling loudly from inside the nest. When it fledged, the starlings moved on and the cavity now appears to be empty.