Open countryside, farmland, parks, and urban areas. Forms enormous communal roosts in winter, especially in urban environments.
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Song & Call Comparison
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Song & Call Comparison
Common Starling
Song
A complex mimic: rattles, whistles, clicks, and squeaks mixed with imitations of other birds. Song is a continuous medley. Also gives harsh 'scheer' alarm and chattering.
Southern White-necked Myna
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Geographic Range & Migration
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Geographic Range & Migration
Common Starling
Native to Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. Introduced to North America, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
Southern White-necked Myna
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Conservation Status Comparison
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Conservation Status
Least Concern
Common Starling
Least Concern
Southern White-necked Myna
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Identification Tips — How to Tell Them Apart
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How to Tell Them Apart
Common Starling
Plumage
Glossy black plumage with iridescent purple and green sheen in breeding season. Winter plumage shows white spotting. Short tail and pointed wings in flight.
Bill
Long, pointed bill — yellow in breeding season, dark in winter
Southern White-necked Myna
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About Each Bird (Descriptions)
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The common starling is famous for its murmurations — vast swirling flocks of thousands that create mesmerizing patterns in winter skies. An accomplished mimic, it can imitate other birds, car alarms, and phone ringtones. Introduced to North America by a group intent on establishing every bird mentioned by Shakespeare.
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More Birds in Family
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