European Starling

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) is a small gregarious bird from the family Sturnidae. It used to be found primarily in deep forests, but in recent years it has adapted to life in parks, gardens and orchards. Both males and females have similar iridescent green glossed feathers covering the back, nape, and breast. Males and females have also similar reddish brown leg color and both share the seasonal changes in bill color (yellow during mating season, otherwise black). The usual nesting sites of European Starling include holes and crevices in trees, buildings, and rooftops. Young are born from April to June and leave the nest after 21 to 23 days. They are still fed by the parents for a few days after this. The diet of European Starlings includes seeds, insects, vertebrates, invertebrates, plants, and fruits. This bird is under protection in Poland. Spinners Nature Preserve - Czarnorzeki - June 08, 2008.