How does the European starling affect fruit crops?

The European starling has a significant impact on fruit crops primarily because they tend to gather in large flocks and actively feed on small fruits. This behavior can lead to extensive damage in orchards and vineyards, particularly when the vulnerable fruits are ripening. Starlings are opportunistic feeders and are attracted to fruit crops, leading to competition with farmers for their harvest. They can consume not only the fruit but also cause physical damage to the plants, which can impair future growth and yield. Understanding their feeding habits and flocking behavior is critical for farmers in managing their crops effectively, especially during the harvest season when the risk of loss to starlings is at its peak.