European Starling breeding in Australia

["Martin O'Brien"<>]

Mike asks about Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) breeding behaviour in
Australia.  Long's book (Introduced Birds of the World) gives a good
indication.

"Very common and increasing in numbers", "Small to large flocks...migrating
flocks may contain 100 000 to 200 000 birds and  roosting flocks are known
to contain millions" [p. 359].

Breeding: April-June; August-January and at other times (Australia); 2-3
broods per season but generally one"

Starlings were introduced (!) to many Australian cities from 1857 onwards
and the account given by Long in his book makes sobering reading for these
"mistakes" by our forfathers.

Martin O'Brien
Executive Scientific Officer
Scientific Advisory Committee
Threatened Species Program
Department of Natural Resources and Environment
4/250 Victoria Pde.,
East Melbourne,  3002
AUSTRALIA

tel: +61 3 9412 4567
fax: +61 3 9412 4586
e-mail: 
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