Page 11 - Natural World Winter 2017

Starlings at sunset in
Caerlaverock, Scotland.
There are plenty more sites
like this around the UK

sparrowhawks are confused by the settings, on buildings and structures
rapid movements, and so struggle – anywhere sheltered, without an
to single out an individual bird and immediate threat from predators.
pursue it. Secondly, to share
information, perhaps about good Some of the best-known places to
nearby food sources that individuals see this amazing natural spectacle
have found on their daily forages. are the Somerset Levels, Brighton
Pier and Gretna Green, but there are
The third reason is warmth. After other sites across the UK too,
wheeling through the sky in a including many Wildlife Trust nature
stunning aerial performance, the reserves. The largest murmurations
flock pours down into a reedbed or in Britain can contain over a million
woodland to roost for the night as birds and displays can last over an
one large group. By forming a hour. This really is the ultimate
cluster the starlings can share body reason to brave the cold this winter.
heat as the air temperature drops. Find your nearest murmuration and
prepare to be wowed.
Starlings also roost in more urban

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of Europe. Look out for a display near you this winter

WINTER 2017 NATURAL WORLD 11