Mixed Flocks Feeding with Starlings: An Experimental Field Study In Western Europe

This study examine species feeding with Starlings in western France. Only 10% of flocks are heterospecific and principal species are Thrushes especially in winter and House Sparrows during the whole year. Experiments with models (i.e. stuffed Starlings) in the middle of a large lawn show (i) that only small species are attracted, (ii) that some species can land very near Starlings and form mixed flocks, and (iii) the diet requirements of joining species can be different (e.g. insectivorous or granivorous). An information aspect of feeding flocks and a general advantage of food accessibility are suggested as reasons for mixed flocks.