Starling Numbers Plummet to Record Lows in Channel Islands

Starlings in Steep Decline as Channel Islands Report Record Low Sightings

The once-familiar chatter of starlings is becoming a rarer sound in Channel Island gardens, with new figures revealing a significant drop in sightings of the species.

According to the latest data from the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, starling numbers have reached a record low in the Channel Islands this year. The glossy, gregarious birds have fallen from fifth to tenth place in sightings across Jersey and Guernsey — and have even dropped out of the top three most commonly seen species in the UK overall.

Beccy Speight, Chief Executive of the RSPB, expressed concern over the figures. “Starlings are among Britain’s most charismatic garden birds, and this decline is worrying. With one in six species in Great Britain now at risk of extinction, it’s clear we’ve done more harm to our natural environment than many realise,” she said.

However, Speight emphasised that the public can play a role in reversing these trends. “Small steps taken in our gardens can make a real difference — not only for starlings, but for a wide range of wildlife.”

To support the species, the RSPB recommends simple changes such as reducing pesticide use, maintaining natural lawns, and mowing grass occasionally to help starlings forage safely. These birds primarily feed on invertebrates like cranefly larvae, and short grass allows them to detect both prey and predators more easily.

Those wishing to go a step further can also install starling-friendly nest boxes, which require an entrance hole of 45 mm in diameter.

Over 1,100 islanders participated in this year’s birdwatching weekend, with house sparrows, wood pigeons, and great tits emerging as the most frequently spotted birds in the region.