The Starling, a bird with a rich history and cultural significance, has captured the hearts and minds of people for centuries. Sacred to the Celts and revered by the Romans, who read their flocking forms like airborne tea leaves to divine the moods of the Gods, the Starling first gained literary fame in the Welsh Mabinogian. In this tale, the heroine Branwen, enduring an oppressive marriage in Ireland, tames a Starling and teaches it to speak before sending it back to Wales to her brother Bran, who comes to her rescue.
The Starling’s literary adventures continue, with appearances in the works of Shakespeare, W.B. Yeats, and even in the world of Pokemon! However, literature is not the Starling’s only artistic outing. Mozart had a beloved pet Starling that could sing parts of his compositions. When the bird died, Mozart apparently staged an elaborate funeral and composed an elegy in its honour, demonstrating the deep bond between the artist and his feathered friend.
The Starling’s story takes a turn when we consider its reception in different cultures. In America, it is often seen as an unwelcome invader, a perception that has led to its persecution. Yet, it thrives against all odds. In stark contrast, in Britain, the Starling is admired and revered, even as its population dwindles. This dichotomy in cultural attitudes adds another layer of fascination to the Starling’s narrative.
Starlings are among the most social of birds, and this is particularly noticeable in winter when they feed in flocks and roost communally. These winter roosts can hold anything from a few thousand to several million birds, drawing in individuals from 20km or more away. In the late afternoon, the flocks can be seen heading for their roost, invariably attracting more birds that join them along the route, creating a spectacular display of aerial acrobatics.
The Starling is a bird with a fascinating history and cultural significance that spans centuries and continents. From its role in ancient folklore to its appearances in literature and art, the Starling has left an indelible mark on our collective imagination. Despite the challenges it faces, this resilient and adaptable bird continues to inspire and captivate us with its beauty and intelligence.