09 March 2022

Common Starlings - Khafra Marsh

Whilst birding Khafra Marsh in late February we came across a small flock of over seventy Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris in flight and on overhead wires. This winter there appear to be more birds than normal with the species a winter visitor that is common in the Eastern Province but rather uncommon and erratic in Tabuk, Riyadh and Jeddah. I have seen small flocks in Jubail around Sabkhat Al Fasl as well as at Khafra Marsh this winter. These birds will be moving back to their breeding areas soon so was nice to see and be able to at least obtain a couple of photos of them.