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Mile End Road, looking East from Cambridge Heath Road with the Vine Tavern on the left (demolished in 1903)

A rare yet beautiful find in London is the resident European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), which are a common sight at Borough Market. As seen here, this little legend was perched upon the 19th century 'Market Porter' pub (9 Stoney St, SE1).

You'll often see them waiting around the food stalls and glass atrium to look for goodies to gobble up.

Most of the time (when in London), you tend to see an abundance of pigeons, but the starlings are bold, tame, and a real pleasure to observe. Just look at those feathers and that monumental beak.

Other than their obvious beauty, another amazing characteristic of the Starlings is their mimicry. They're well known for being able to mimic a great many sounds. So don't be surprised if you hear one making the sound of a reversing lorry, mobile phone, market traders, or even your own voice.

You could be hearing noises that you think are natural but are, in fact, Starlings mimicking their surroundings.

We were in awe of this chap whilst out for Pub/History Tours.

The Hunters Inn, Swanmore, 1969.
Local postcard.

Edwardian Interior scene of an English Pub

Attributed to Randolph Caldecott

Tolcarne Inn by Dod Procter

Image credit: Penlee House Gallery & Museum

The Domino Players by Edward Joseph Head

The 'Charing Cross Arms'

Image credit: Compton Verney