Often regarded as a pest, the European Starling often wins grudging admiration for its adaptability, toughness, and seeming intelligence. Brought to North America in 1890, it has spread to occupy most of the continent, and is now abundant in many areas. Sociable at most seasons, starlings may gather in immense flocks in fall and winter The European Starling has a series of discordant, musical, squeaky, and rasping notes; often imitates other birds. Call a descending whee-ee.
Starlings sometimes lay eggs in each other's nests. Males sometime have more than one mate. Nests are usually in any kind of cavity; natural hollow or woodpecker hole in tree, in birdhouse, or (in southwest) in hole in giant cactus. Sometimes in holes or crevices in buildings or other odd spots. Nest construction is begun by male, often completed by female (who may throw out some of male's nest material).
Their life span of a starling typically ranges anywhere from 2 to 3 years. There are some cases where starlings are kept in captivity and live up to 20 years. European Starlinngs can be seen along this lovely trail, enjoy your birding!