Common Starling

Sturnus vulgaris

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9 recent observations

Brief #

Plumage is iridescent black, glossed purple or green, and spangled with white, especially in winter.

Synonyms #

  • Estornino pinto (Spanish)
  • EstorniƱo pinto (Galician)

Red List Status #

The Common Starling is unlikely to become extinct in the near future.
Find out more about IUCN's Red List program here

Description #

Glossy black upperparts, with brown margins to the wings and feathers. The head, back and underparts are also glossy black in summer, turning white and heavily speckled come winter. Juvenile has a grey-brown and buff body, a pale chin patch and black legs and bill distinguish the juveniles from the adult birds.

Measurements #

Length: 20 - 23 cm
Wingspan: 31 - 44 cm
Weight: 58 - 101 g

Similar species #