Starlings are very underrated birds. From a distance, they can appear to be rather drab and dull. Seen close to, however, they really are extraordinary, with a beautiful irridescent sheen to their plumage.
They are also amazing mimics. The one in the photograph convincingly (and rather confusingly) imitated a level crossing warning, a mobile phone ringtone and a bunch of keys being rattled within the space of a couple of minutes.
A few years back, they really would have been a beautiful everyday sight, but sadly their numbers are declining. So let’s appreciate them whilst we still can.
You can find more (extra)ordinary photographs over on the Daily Post blog.
Ah, this beautiful creature is a Starling! We were away last week-end and there were simply dozens of these birds seemingly EVERYWHERE we went but we didn’t know what they were. Now we know – thank you! 🙂
I used to think of them as rock n roll birds when I was growing up on account of their slick shiny plumage and loud changing voices. It’s so sad that what we called normal is becoming rare – this is another example … world wake up!
Lovely – you’ve really caught its dazzling feathers
Beautiful photo.