starling (1), sterlyng

[A dim in. from stare (1), s. (q. v.)] Ornith.: A popular name for any individual of the genus Sturnus (q. v.), sometimes extended to the whole family [STURNIDE), but specifically applied to Sturnus vulgar is , the Common Starling, abundant in most parts of the continent of Europe, frequently visiting northern Africa in its winter migrations. The male is about eight inches long, general color of the plumage black, glo ed with blue and purple, the feathers, except those of the head and fore-neck, having a triangular white spot on the tip. The female is very similar, but has the feathers tipped with broader spots, those on the upper parts being light brown. The eggs are from four to six in number, light blue in color, and are deposited in some hole or crevice on a scanty lining. Starlings feed on snails, worms, and insects; they are gregarious, uniting in large flocks, and may be readily distinguished from all other birds by their whirling method of flight. They become exceedingly familiar in confinement, and display great imitative powers, learning to whistle tunes and to articulate words and phrases with great distinct ne . starling-like birds, s. pl. Ornith.: The sub-order Sturniformes (q. v.).