Starlings in Switzerland are short-distance migrants. They fly in flocks south according to the climate. When the winter is mild, they leave late and return early. Their winter habitats area Western Europe and the Mediterranean.
The starling is a highly gregarious bird, especially in autumn and winter. Huge, noisy flocks – murmurations – may form near roosts. These dense concentrations of birds are thought to be a defense against attacks by birds of prey such as falcons and sparrowhawks.