GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)

Species Code: STVU

Legend:
= Core Habitat
= Marginal Habitat

Breeding Range Map
The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA), other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Habitats used during non-breeding months and migratory rest-stops were not mapped.

Metadata (Data about data or how the map was made)

Click to enlarge distribution map

Other maps & Information:

Breeding Bird Atlas
NatureMapping observations
during breeding season
NatureMapping observations
throughout the year

This species is abundant in most habitats at lower elevations throughout Washington, following human development. At higher elevations, it is limited to developed sites such as ski areas. Generally, it is absent from montane and high elevations forests.

Core zones were those below the Silver Fir zone in western Washington below the Interior Redcedar zone in northeastern Washington, and below the Subalpine zone elssewhere in eastern Washington. In zones where agriculture or development is major cover type, all habitats except bare ground were good.

Washington breeders represent the widespread nominate Eurasian subspecies S.v.vulgaris. Starlings were successfully introduced from Europe to New York's Central Park in l890 after two failed attempts. Starlings are most common in developed and agricultural areas, but they make use of virtually all habitats, even the edges of old forest stands, when these habitats are adjacent to developed or agricultural areas.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Bird Volume by Uchenna Bright
Text edited by Gussie Litwer
Webpage designed by Dave Lester