November 16, 2024

Starlings UK Murmuration – The Secrets of Nature’s Beautiful Display.

The starlings UK murmuration is an incredible spectacle to witness. I could not believe my eyes the first time I saw this! It’s something I now enjoy every year as it is honestly breathtaking to see these birds in such huge numbers. Plus, the sound of that many wings is super cool. If you enjoy taking photos, it is absolutely a must-see!

In this post, I am sharing information about the place I usually go to, to watch the starlings UK murmurations.

Where is best to see the starling murmurations in the UK?

I usually go to RSPB Otmoor Nature Reserve. One of the many great things about Otmoor is the other birds/wildlife you can also see here, as well as the starlings. Last time I went, I was lucky enough to see an otter swimming in the lake and he even popped up onshore as well. I also saw kingfishers and black swans as well as a marsh harrier. Dreamy! However, some other recommended locations for starling murmurations are: Brighton Pier, Sussex Ham Wall, Somerset Gretna Green, Scotland Aberystwyth Pier, Wales Leighton Moss, and Lancashire.

When?

Between November and February is the recommended time frame, but December and January are the best months to get out looking for starling murmurations. I always go out with my friend at the very beginning of January as it makes for a lovely new years outing! Time of day: The murmurations occur just before sunset (approximately 30 minutes before) but, I always recommend getting there quite a bit before this if you’re hoping to find a seat in the hide.

Why?

Starling murmurations are a remarkable survival strategy where thousands of birds gather before roosting at night. The mesmerising swirling patterns serve multiple purposes: safety in numbers protects them from predators like falcons, while the gathering allows birds to share information about good feeding areas and stay warm. Each starling coordinates with its closest neighbours, creating a fluid, wave-like motion that confuses predators and helps the flock move as one. This pre-roosting ritual also gives younger birds a chance to find mates and allows the group to share knowledge about safe places to spend the night.

Top Tips for the Starlings UK Murmuration:

Do wear wellies! Otmoor at this time of year is very wet and very muddy. Ankle boots may struggle because sometimes the mud or water-logged paths will be over ankle-height! Especially if you have to walk the return paths in the dark which usually is the case if you stay for the whole murmuration.

Always be as quiet as possible to avoid disturbing the birds and subsequently impacting the photographers too!

During the murmuration it can get cold, especially if operating a camera so I always like to bring gloves. If you are a photographer, you may also find a tripod handy as there is a lot of waiting and pointing of cameras.