Wildlife

Urban Starling Murmurations and Winter Welfare

Starlings form spectacular winter murmurations, but face serious welfare challenges from habitat loss, food scarcity, and population decline.

Key Facts

UK starling populations have declined by over 80% since the 1970s
Murmurations are thought to provide predator protection and warmth
Starlings are highly social and suffer welfare impacts when roost sites are destroyed
Invertebrate prey decline due to pesticide use is a major driver of starling decline

Welfare Considerations

Cold winters and food scarcity are the primary welfare challenges for urban starlings. Roost site destruction and pest control at roost locations can cause significant suffering to large numbers of birds.

What You Can Do

Provide supplementary food (mealworms, fat balls) for starlings in winter
Protect roost sites from unnecessary disturbance
Support pesticide reduction policies that benefit invertebrate prey