Perched on the roof of a neighbour, looking around as if surveying it's kingdom.
The RSPB says they are "Conspicuous and widespread in the UK, occurring everywhere except for the highest parts of the Scottish Highlands. They are most abundant in southern England and are more thinly distributed in upland areas with moorland. Still one of the UK's commonest garden birds. Huge roosts are found in plantations, reed beds and city centres."
One of the most impressive sights is when thousands of starlings swoop and dive in unison, creating what is known as a murmuration. Some years ago many starlings started to roost under Lendal Bridge in York, and they would fly up and over the bridge together, creating an impressive constantly changing arch.
VML starlings, hooligans that they are. Not seen in this neck of the woods, too rural by far. However did see some last year on a girly w/e in Brighton, last March. We were 3 'girls?', 1 of whom had never seen a murmuration. On our last evening, suitably equipped with glasses and some warming alcohol, we sat on Brighton beach waiting for dusk and the starlings. Whilst they weren't as numerous as they used to be, they impressed Lin. So much so she said 'it was the best thing we've done all w/e.' Le vlolà! Another convert.
Thank you all for your comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
It is surprising how colourful these birds are when seen close-up, when from a distance they look quite dull and ordainary.
Ian
Thank you Paul
Ian