What is a Murmuration?

A murmuration is when a large group of birds, often starlings, come together and move in synchronized patterns in the sky. The birds imitate the movements of their neighboring birds, creating a mesmerizing display where the entire flock appears to move as one cohesive unit. It’s more captivating than looking through a kaleidoscope, more impressive than any drone show, and even beats a Diwali fireworks display. Murmurations are typically observed in the evening before the birds settle down for the night. While the exact reasons for murmurations are not fully understood, they are thought to serve as a defense against predators and a way for birds to exchange information and stay warm. These aerial displays are a stunning natural phenomenon to witness. In India, you can see murmurations of Rosy Starlings in states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
Starlings are small, black birds known for their adaptability and iridescent plumage. They are found worldwide, with the European Starling being a well-known species. They are social birds, often seen in large flocks, and famous for their murmurations – synchronized aerial displays. Starlings have an omnivorous diet, eating insects, fruits, seeds, and more.

 

A Starling Bird

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