STARLING. 
493. NSturnus vulgaris. 8% inches. 
Plumage metallic green and purple, heavily spotted 
above and below with buffy or white. 
These European birds were introduced into New York 
a number of years ago, and are now common there and 
spreading to other localities in Connecticut and about 
New York City. They live about the streets and in the 
parks, building their nests in crevices of buildings and 
especially in the framework of the elevated railroads cf 
the city, and less often in trees. They lay from four to 
six pale-blue, unspotted eggs (1.15 x .85). How they will 
affect other bird life, in case they eventually become 
common throughout the country, is a matter of conjec- 
ture, but from what I have seen of them they are quar- 
relsome and are masters of the English Sparrow, and 
may continue their domineering tactics to the extent of 
driving more of our song birds from the cities. 
