Starlings exhibit every characteristic of a successful animal invader: they are robust, aggressive, omnivorous, and unfussy about nest spots, and they reach sexual maturity at just nine months. They reproduce prolifically, with two clutches per season, sometimes more, and raise large broods of four to six chicks. (One clutch is the norm for most migrant songbirds, though nonmigratory resident birds in temperate climates—like robins and chickadees—will often raise two broods.) Starlings are inquisitive and intelligent, which makes them adaptable and ready to explore and colonize new places.
“Starlings exhibit every characteristic of a successful animal invader: they are robust, aggressive, omnivorous, and unfussy about nest spots, and they reach sexual maturity at just nine months. They reproduce prolifically, with two clutches per season, sometimes more, and raise large broods of four to six chicks. (One clutch is the norm for most migrant songbirds, though nonmigratory resident birds in temperate climates—like robins and chickadees—will often raise two broods.) Starlings are inquisitive and intelligent, which makes them adaptable and ready to explore and colonize new places.”
