European Starlings seem to be everywhere during different seasons. If you look at their range, you’ll see that they cover almost all of North America. It’s amazing that these Starlings were first brought to North America by those who loved Shakespeare and now they cover almost the whole continent (allaboutbirds).
European Starlings vs. Common Grackles
European Starlings are often confused with Common Grackles, but there are a few differences that are helpful in distinguishing the two birds. Grackles also have an iridescence but lack the white speckles that Starlings have. European Starlings also bear very striking yellow beaks during the warmer months, while Common Grackles have black beaks all year round. The tail of Common Grackles is longer and they have black legs, while European Starlings have orange legs. You can see the match up between the two birds here: Cornell Lab’s allaboutbirds.org
Even Peter Rabbit has to ask Jenny Wren to tell the difference between the two birds in Thorton W. Burgess’ classic, The Burgess Bird Book for Children.
Our Gathering of the European Starling
European Starlings love insects and so you’ll often see them trailing around and eating from the ground!
Until next time, lookout for a European Starling! <3 Kate
For more, checkout The Burgess Writing & Coloring Pages and The Burgess Birds in Detail.
The Living Book Press link above contains an affiliate link, so I may receive a small payment if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.