Although it is often said that Starlings murmurate to confuse predators - I'm not sure. My phone has enhanced the amount of light a bit in this clip - there wouldn't be many birds like Peregrines hunting at this time of day.
I think that part of it is the sheer 'enjoyment' the birds get from gathering and interacting socially like this - not everything has to be about finding food and raising young.
Apparently they reserve their 'special' and long murmurations for the right evening, after a week of gloomy weather I think this was that one.
Apologies for the distracting soundtrack - a combination of the waves crashing on the shore and my heavy breathing after speed walking with all my gear to get a bit closer.
I have seen a few of these before, but not with a clear sky behind to let me fully appreciate the amazing fluid motion.
They murmurate over their roost site. Walking past it once the birds had dropped down the sound of excited chattering was so loud. I wonder if they were congratulating each other on an epic performance!
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