Haslam, M. (2024). Wild European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) make and use woolen tools. Animal Behavior and Cognition, 11(1), 79-86. https://doi.org/10.26451/abc.10.01.05.2024

This study reports the novel manufacture and use of tools by wild European or common starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) in mainland Orkney, Scotland. On two occasions over a period of ten days, multiple starlings picked off and applied pieces of discarded sheep’s fleece to the area under their wings and tails, in a manner similar to widespread ‘anting’ behavior. The birds’ goal is unknown, but it is likely that they are using the woolen tools for feather maintenance or another form of self-care. These observations reflect a previously unreported form of tool use in European starlings, which was rapid, repeated, and performed by several members of a flock.

Common starling, Wool, Sheep, Self-care, Avian tool use