Where are the starlings?

First off, I don't miss Sturnus vulgaris.  The starling is a real pest in most parts of the year but fortunately they seem to take a vacation starting in Fall.  I wonder if we could find out what cues make them leave or migrate and then use that to give them the hint that they are not wanted during the Spring and Summer?  They normally roost in large flocks in the maple trees that overhang our cars in the driveway and you can imagine what the result is.

Instead of starlings at this time of the year, I see several blue jays in the yard, along with sparrows and wrens.  At the pond there are still huge flocks of Canada geese, a few ducks and lots of gulls (that seems strange).

Squirrels and bushy tails

As I type I am watching another squirrel do the tightrope walk on the power lines over the busy street outside my house.  I am struck by the movements of the squirrel's tail and I am fairly sure it is how the squirrel is able to maintain such exquisite balance on narrow tree branches and wires.  All it takes are constant, minute adjustments in tail position to maintain the squirrel's center of gravity in the proper position. It reminds of tightrope walkers who hold long poles to maintain their balance.  It would be interesting to look at animals with bushy tails and their habitats and niches to see if they also perform delicate balancing acts as part of their survival.