European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) on Feb 25, 2009

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

I'm surprised to learn that you are asking for information about European Starlings. I have flocks of 30 -40 that come to the yard several times daily to steal from my feeder. I try to keep only niger thistle, which they do not like. But I like to feed the songbirds sunflower when I can afford it. My dogs know the difference between Starlings and songbirds, and I let the dogs out whenever I see the starlings to scare them out of the yard.

Commentary

Is there anything I can do that will encourage songbirds while discouraging European Starlings?

Reporter
Feb. 25, 2009, 11:13 a.m.

Hi Barbara, actually, we're not asking for reports of starlings. We accept reports of all invasive species, but many of the common ones, such as starlings, scotch broom, and English ivy are now so common and well established, particularly in the Portland metropolitan area, that we don't "track" them per se, compared to sightings of new invasive species.

But nonetheless, we appreciate your report and your watchful eye!

Lisa DeBruyckere
Feb. 25, 2009, 12:02 p.m.