Starlings

A few species of starlings are considered to be important pests. For example, in North America the European starling is widely regarded as a problem when it occurs in large numbers. This species has contributed to the decline of some native species of birds, by competitively displacing them from nesting cavities, which are usually in short supply. Various native birds have been affected by this competition with starlings, including the eastern and mountain bluebirds (Sialia sialis and S. mexicanus, respectively), the tree swallow (Iridoprocne bicolor), and the red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus). The European starling can also foul buildings with its excrement, corroding stone and metals and creating a health hazard to people through exposure to pathogenic fungi. In addition, the European starling sometimes causes agricultural damage, especially to certain tender fruits, such as cherries. For similar reasons, the Indian mynah (Acridotheres tristis) is often considered a pest in tropical regions.

However, these abundant species of starlings are also beneficial in some respects, because they eat large numbers of potentially injurious insects, such as cutworms and other beetle larvae that can damage lawns. The European starling and Indian mynah are also among the few non-human animals that can tolerate urban environments, and these birds provide an aesthetic benefit in cities.

A few species of starlings are easily bred in captivity, and are important in the pet trade. The best known example of this is the hill mynah (Gracula religiosa), native to South and Southeast Asia and widely kept as a pet. This attractive species maintains a busy and noisy chatter, and can be easily trained to mimic human words and phrases.