Flocks (murmurations) Of Starlings; (Species: Sturnus vulgaris; Family: Sturnidae; Order: Passeriformes). - Stockfoto

Flocks of Starlings images taken in England, Somerset at Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath (Avalon Marshes), at roosting time. They gather in huge numbers prior to settling together for the night, in the flooded peat bog reeds, congregating for warmth and safety in numbers. Many Starlings over-winter in the UK, migrating from continental Europe - that generally experiences harsher winter weather.In many images, a lone bird about twice the size of a Starling, can be seen. This is a Peregrine Falcon (Species: Falco peregrinus). It’s presence and the way it attacks, mostly determines the spectacular shapes and movements within the flock. The shear number of birds is thought to confuse the Peregrine, whereas solitary birds are easier to pick off, attack and kill.This spectacle takes place at dusk or twilight, usually in very low lighting conditions.