My first ever rosy (rose-coloured) starling was a replendent full summer plumage adult way back in August 1994, at Moelfre on Anglesey. Wonderful though that bird was, it did set the bar a bit high for all subsequent rosy starlings, and it's taken me 23 years to pluck up the courage to go and have a look at a juvenile, which I have always considered to be a bit on the dull side. Just to make matters worse, todays bird was in the middle of a housing estate, just about the worst place imaginable for birding. I always feel unwelcome, self conscious and even a little bit silly when I'm birding in amongst residential properties. However, we were in the area today so it seemed a good opportunity to exorcise the juvenile rosy starling demon once and for all. Deep breathes.....
Actually though, not a bad looking bird and easy enough to identify. Dark wings contrasting with a paler body, short stubby bill with a yellow base.
Quite distinct, even high up on a wire.
Clearly a stubbier bill than the common starlings.
Right, let's get out of here.....
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