STABLING. 



493. Sturnus vulgaris. 8 l / 2 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 of 

 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. 



