Starling

Lo Black Starling is a bird belonging to the family Sturnidae. This species is mainly distributed in regions bordering the Mediterranean Sea, and is most common in Italy in the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, where it prefers anthropized habitats, such as urban areas, buildings and cultivated land.

The Black Starling is a medium-sized bird with plumage that varies from glossy black to bluish, particularly noticeable during the breeding season when its livery appears brighter. Its diet is omnivorous, feeding mainly on insects, fruits and, in particular, seeds. The song of the Black Starling is melodious and varied, and it often makes a variety of sounds, including imitations of other birds, making it particularly interesting acoustically.

The species nests between March and June, building its nest in natural or artificial cavities, such as trees, buildings and various types of structures. It is a sociable bird that tends to form groups, especially during migratory periods or while searching for food. Although the Black Starling is sedentary in many of its distribution areas, it may undertake local movements during the winter in search of food.