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 Starling Stumus vulgaris L 21. Breeds very commonly in or close to cultivated country, especially near human habitations. Makes its home in nestboxes and holes in trees and walls, under roof tiles etc. Note short tail, speckled plumage and long, pointed bill. Wanders quickly and without pausing over lawns searching for insects (cf. Blackbird). Flight swift, silhouette characteristic with short tail and pointed wings. Gregarious. Noisy packs of drab brown juveniles emerge in early summer. Flies in tight flocks, sometimes thousands of birds together in association with roosting in reeds (also city centres) after the breeding season. Call in flight is a short weak buzzing 'tcheerrr' . Alarm a hard 'kyett' (bird of prey) or a grating croak 'stah' (at the nest). The song is varied with whistles, clicking noises and much expert mimicry, recognised by its whining, strained tone and by recurring descending whistles 'seeeooo'. RW
 An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising birds
is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe,
which is a comprehensive reference guide to Britain
and mainland Europe's plethora of ornithological life.
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