All we know as Brighton starling murmurations set to finish

It is a winter spectacle where hundreds of thousands of starlings perform an aerial dance over the Brighton seafront at sunset.

People travel far and wide to see the display, as it is one of Britain's most famous starling murmurations. 

Despite a recent decline in the birds’ overall population, you can still see the mesmerising sight of 40,000 of them performing their aerial dance at dawn and dusk over the piers.

When and where can I see them?

Starling murmurations occur at dusk and early evening in the autumn and winter months in the UK, so arriving 30 minutes before sunset is ideal timing.

If you want the full experience, you can stand towards the end of the pier, experiencing the sights and sounds of the starlings.

The spectacular murmurations can be viewed anywhere along the seafront (Image: Rachel Faichnie) Standing at the end of the pier means that you will be able to hear the sound of their wings, if the weather is calm.

Why do murmurations happen, and why do they only happen in winter?

Starlings are in the UK all year round, but their numbers increase through November to February when many migrate here from Scandinavia. 

Various studies have suggested that the starlings congregate in these murmurations to deter any possible predators.

The birds have also been known to move around within the flock and try to minimise their time on the edge where they are most vulnerable.

After swarming, the birds will huddle together to help them retain body heat during cold nights.

In Brighton, they will bed down for the night on the West Pier.

It is also important to check the forecast as most extrovert displays are in clear, calm, cold conditions.