Starlings Return to Brighton in Spectacular Fashion
Brighton’s skies are set for a dazzling display as thousands of migrant starlings return to join the local flocks. On 7 October, community reps gathered at Waterhall to celebrate this annual phenomenon at the ‘Welcome Back’ event, organised by the #SaveOurStarlings campaign.
100 Starling Nest Boxes Up for Grabs
As part of the drive to protect these feathered visitors, the campaign is handing out 100 starling nest boxes to schools, community groups, and local organisations strategically located near starling hotspots. These boxes aim to boost nesting opportunities and help reverse the plunging starling numbers.
Starlings’ Spiralling Decline Rings Alarm Bells
The spectacular murmuration – where starlings swoop and swirl in massive flocks – is a beloved Brighton & Hove landmark. But it’s under threat. Starling numbers in the UK and Brighton & Hove have crashed by around 87% over the last 30-40 years, landing the bird on the official ‘red list’ for conservation concern.
“The sight of murmurations around Brighton’s piers inspire so many of us,” said Council leader Phélim Mac Cafferty at the event. “But behind this wonder lies the harsh reality of drastic starling declines. We must take bold action to protect our city’s precious wildlife.”
City Backs Biodiversity with Bold Moves
The council is investing £7.8 million from its Carbon Neutral Fund to support biodiversity projects, including providing vital food and shelter for starlings and other endangered species. Initiatives like Wilder Verges have transformed over 20 street verges into wildlife havens this year, while City of Meadows sees schools planting wildflowers and installing bee bricks and swift boxes.
Waterhall, the event’s venue and a former golf course turned nature reserve, recently boasted a survey uncovering over 650 species of invertebrates, including 40 bee species and 25 butterfly species.
“It’s inspiring to see so many people in Brighton & Hove united for nature,” said Councillor Jamie Lloyd, lead councillor for biodiversity. “Efforts like putting up nest boxes bring us closer to nature and support mental health—especially on World Mental Health Day. Biodiversity is essential for our planet and our wellbeing, especially as climate change intensifies.”
The starling nest box campaign enjoys backing from Brighton Palace Pier, The Living Coast, and Brighton & Hove Environmental Education.
