Starling murmurations are one of nature’s most enthralling spectacles, with thousands of birds swirling in synchronised, shifting patterns at dusk.
Experts believe these displays help protect the starlings from predators, such as peregrine falcons, and keep them warm in winter.
Some of the best spots to see them in the UK include Brighton Pier, Gretna Green and RSPB Ham Wall. The largest recorded murmuration in the world was in Denmark, with over a million starlings.
The birds communicate by mimicking their nearest neighbours, creating stunning fluid motions. Starling murmurations peak in late autumn and winter when migratory birds from Europe join resident UK populations for the season – but even in February you still have a chance of seeing this incredible sky dance.
This video was taken at Brighton Pier on the south coast of England, where as many as 40,000 starlings can be seen during peak murmuration season.
Main image: starlings at Brighton Pier/Getty
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