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Why Starlings Flock in Murmurations

Starlings are actually considered an invasive species in North America. They were introduced in the country by Shakespeare enthusiasts in the 1890s.
Starlings are actually considered an invasive species in North America. They were introduced in the country by Shakespeare enthusiasts in the 1890s. Photo: Jeff J Mitchell (Getty Images)

Ornithologists and other experts believe that starlings flock in murmurations for various reasons. Some contend that they do this to ward off and confuse predators, adopting a “safety in numbers” strategy. Others believe that starlings engage in this behavior to stay warm. Still another theory states that the birds could be coming together to share information on roosting sites.

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