Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)
The Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) is a highly adaptable bird known for its striking metallic plumage and complex vocalizations. Originally native to Europe and Asia, it has been introduced to North America, where it plays a dual role in agriculture by both controlling pest populations and occasionally causing damage to crops.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Common Starling |
| 🇫🇷 | Étourneau sansonnet |
| 🇩🇪 | Gemeiner Star |
| 🇲🇽 | Estornino pinto |
Taxonomy
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
Characteristics
| Length | 19-23cm |
| Weight | 11.8-13.8g |
| Wingspan | 31-44cm |
| Clutch Size | 3-6 eggs |
| Incubation | 12 days |
| Fledging | 21-23 days |
| Sexual Maturity | 1 year |
Explore More
📖 Wikipedia Page: For more information about this species.
Identification and Whereabouts
The Common Starling is characterized by its dark, bluish-green metallic plumage adorned with white spots. It is typically observed in small flocks within local parks, often perched atop trees or foraging on the ground.
The Common Starling can be observed from early spring to late autumn in various parks throughout Montreal.
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Champ des Possibles | x | - | - | - |
| Parc Angrignon | x | x | - | - |
| Parc Michel-Chartrand | x | - | - | - |
| Parc de la Frayère | x | - | - | - |
| Parc des Rapides | x | x | - | - |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2025-01-12