The common starling, also known as the European starling, is a widespread bird found across North America. Introduced to the continent in the late 19th century, these birds have become a familiar sight in various habitats. Understanding the characteristics of starling eggs is helpful for anyone seeking to identify them in their natural surroundings. This information can aid in distinguishing them from the eggs of other bird species.
Appearance of Starling Eggs
Starling eggs possess distinctive features that aid in their identification. Their color is typically a pale blue or greenish-blue, often appearing unmarked. While most starling eggs lack speckles, some may rarely exhibit very faint reddish-brown spots. The shell surface is smooth and often has a slight gloss.
Regarding their dimensions, starling eggs are oval in shape, sometimes with a slight point at one end. They measure approximately 26.5 to 34.5 millimeters (1.04 to 1.36 inches) in length and 20.0 to 22.5 millimeters (0.79 to 0.89 inches) in maximum diameter, with an average of about 30 x 21 mm.
Starling Nesting and Egg Identification
Starling eggs are almost always found within a cavity, as these birds are obligate cavity nesters. They often choose locations like tree hollows, abandoned woodpecker holes, and crevices in buildings. Starlings readily adapt to human-made structures, nesting in areas such as streetlights, traffic signal supports, and even in vents or attics of homes. They can also utilize birdhouses, particularly those with larger openings.
The breeding season for starlings in North America typically spans from mid-April through mid-July, though some southern populations may begin laying eggs as early as mid-March. Identifying starling eggs requires considering the nesting context, including the type of nest site and the time of year. Starlings are known to reuse nesting cavities in successive years.
Distinguishing starling eggs from those of other birds involves noting key differences. American Robin eggs, for example, are a vibrant, deeper “robin’s egg blue” and are typically spotless, contrasting with the paler, often greenish-blue hue of starling eggs. House Sparrow eggs are typically smaller, measuring about 22.5 x 15.5 mm, and possess distinct speckling in shades of brown and blue-grey, unlike the generally unmarked starling eggs. Observing these specific characteristics, along with the nesting environment, assists in accurate identification.