Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are considered pests in most regions. Grackles, (Quiscalus quiscula) larger "strutty" birds, are also considered "black birds" and may be protected in some areas. The Red winged Black bird (Agelaius Phoeniceus) is considered a song bird in most of its environs and is not open to "shooting".
We are infested here in southernmost Illinois with grackles and Starlings. They rob feeders in bad weather and will hit crop fields such as sorghum/milo with a vengeance.
As a side note, years ago market hunters shot black birds as they roosted in the marsh grass and cattails in the lower New York harbor on the Jersey side where the Meadow lands now sit (NY Giants Stadium, et al.) by the thousands and sold them to the NY market.
Just an FYI
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Bruce A. Hering
Program Coordinator/Lead Instructor (retired)
Shotgun Team Coach, NSCA Level III Instructor
Southeastern Illinois College
AMM 761
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