Abstract
The feeding behaviour of Spotless Starlings ( Sturnus unicolor) on a cattle farm was analysed in terms of the choice and efficiency of consumption of two types of the same commercial feed (pelleted or ground). The starlings greatly preferred the pellets. During visits to the feeders, birds always consumed more pelleted feed than ground feed. The pelleted feed required less pecks and foraging time, while the ground feed was not easily handled due to its particle size. Yearling starlings consumed fewer pellets than adults (possibly due to competition) and their consumption was less efficient. Economic losses provoked by the starlings could be reduced by using ground feed and protecting the feeders in the pens during the winter season.
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