Thanks, Mike and Penny for alerting us to more info and interest in
the starling spectacle, population situation and UK starlings in
general - it's fascinating! But, also I've found the following
narrated video about the flocking phenomenon to be an intriguing and
seemingly viable non-predator explanation as well as a visual
masterpiece - a friend sent me this. And there are lots more visual
youtube "Black Cloud" treats awaiting our clicks - I've only checked
out a few and find this one tops. Take a look - you'll be hooked! I
think I may be moved to start up a new group: SAS2 (Starling
Appreciation Society - the "2" is added because the acronymn SAS is
already taken by our local Audubon Society). First thing we will work
on is to continue the work of SOW (Save Our Wetlands) while we
concurrently start a movement to build up the US flocks so we don't
have to travel to Europe to witness this behavior. Yes, I'm jesting,
but I sure am developing a new-found admiration of starlings. Anyone
ever seen this phenomenon (starling flocking ballet) in the US?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH-groCeKbE


Barb Deihl

North Matthews Beach - NE Seattle

barbdeihl at comcast.net
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