Comment from alaskapat
We have starlings here too, they nested in my neighbors eves. I appreciate that you were able to capture this one as they quickly fly off whenever I try to photograph them, this one offered you a wonderful pose op on the green plant. The sunlight is allowing a good look at the colors of the feathers, from a distance and in the shadows they look like black birds. This is well focused, the image is clear, I wish the eye was brighter. I love the way the bird stands out from the pretty blue sky. Well composed and presented!

 Comment Written 11-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 11-Feb-2020

Thanks Pat was taken from car otherwise would have flown away 😀

Comment from nikman
A very good nature photo posted here! Here in the UK there are lots of starlings but they are not considered to be pests. Why are they so in Australia? Sharpness and exposure are good. Nicely taken!

 Comment Written 10-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 11-Feb-2020

Thanks very much - they take over the native birds natural habitat both nesting areas and food - they seem to breed more than some of our native species although the stronger natives do survive.

reply by nikman on 11-Feb-2020

Many thanks! Not heard that they do that here!!

Comment from Lucas Sizov
Mary, this is a great shot! The bright sunlight makes a great contrast and tones. All the colors are brilliant! The composition is perfect! I love the pattern of the wings. Bright green brings hope of spring. Amazing sharpness and clarity! Bravo!!#

 Comment Written 10-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 11-Feb-2020

Thanks so much Lucas :) Mary

Comment from supergold
it is time that people learn not to introduce foreign species, except in a zoo!
an excellent close up portrait mary of this starling; I like the outstanding sharp details of his feathers;

 Comment Written 10-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 11-Feb-2020

Thanks Fred yes we have quite a few introduced species which have created major problems as there are no natural predators to keep numbers controlled. I think they are slowly learning.

Comment from eileen0204
Very handsome specimen Mary.

Of course I cannot tell if this is male or female as I do not know enough about starlings.

Your details are fine with a beautiful blue background.

 Comment Written 10-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 11-Feb-2020

Thanks Eileen - I think it is a female as the male tends to be darker in coloring :)

Comment from Dick Lee Shia
A well illuminated capture showing Fine features & smooth textures.
Dynamic diagonal framing...
Simple monochromatic background pops out avian subject nicely.
Foliage add to its natural setting.
Thanks for sharing...

 Comment Written 10-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 10-Feb-2020

Thanks Dick :)

Comment from jesuel
What a beautiful photo of this little guy the color is great the detail is great excellent depth great lighting and I like how you gave dreamed it in beautiful work here

 Comment Written 09-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 10-Feb-2020

Thanks James :)

Comment from michiganmike
They are a major pest in America too. They were responsible for the near extinction of the blue birds. It is not their fault that they can out compete the native species, but should serve as a warning when introducing nonnative species. A very nice shot though.

 Comment Written 09-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 10-Feb-2020

Thanks Mike yes I think these days we have learnt especially after the disaster of introduction of Cane Toads

Comment from Sean T Phelan
I think that Starlings are considered to be a 'Pest' species just about everywhere,Mary!
You've certainly captured a fine looking photograph of this individual,my friend!
~Sean

 Comment Written 09-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 10-Feb-2020

Thanks Sean :)

reply by Sean T Phelan on 10-Feb-2020

You're welcome,Mary! : )

Comment from MKFlood
Cool capture. The angle of the shot of this bird is great. The clarity is great. The capture of the light is great. The image is balance and eye appealing to the viewer. Good eye and great job overall

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 Comment Written 09-Feb-2020

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reply by the author on 09-Feb-2020

Thanks very much :)