Somerset's Starling Murmurations Named Among Top 10 Natural Wonders to Experience in 2025!
Somerset’s very own starling murmurations have been ranked as one of the top 10 natural wonders of the world to experience in 2025 by Vrbo, alongside global marvels like Iceland's volcanoes and Finland’s Northern Lights. These awe-inspiring displays, where thousands of starlings perform breathtaking aerial dances in perfect unison, have captured the attention of travelers worldwide. According to Vrbo, part of the Expedia Group, Somerset's starling murmurations have become one of the world's must-see experiences..
What Makes Somerset’s Starling Murmurations So Special?
A starling murmuration is a stunning natural phenomenon where thousands of starlings swoop, twist, and turn in remarkable synchronicity just before settling down to roost. It’s a breathtaking evening display that has been called the greatest wildlife spectacle in Britain.
But why do they do it? Studies suggest starlings form these swirling masses as a defence mechanism against predators - confusing potential attackers with their rapid, coordinated movements. They also huddle together for warmth during the winter months.
When and Where to See Somerset’s Starling Murmurations
Starling murmurations in Somerset typically occur between October and March, with the peak in December and January when local birds are joined by starlings from mainland Europe. As the temperatures drop across Europe, more birds migrate to the UK.swelling the flocks and creating even more dramatic displays.
For the best chance to witness this natural wonder, visit the Ham Wall reserve near Glastonbury, where sometimes several hundred people gather to enjoy this magical experience. Conveniently, Ham Wall has a car park, making it easy to access for visitors. It’s only about a 30-minute drive from Weston-super-Mare. RSPB staff are on hand in the pay & display car park advising spectators where to go within the nature reserve to get the best view. Again this is not an exact science.
The birds usually perform just before sunset, though on cloudier days they may start earlier. However, there's no guarantee that the starlings will put on a show every evening - it’s all part of nature’s unpredictability.
One thing’s for sure—you don’t need to be a bird enthusiast to appreciate the sheer beauty of this phenomenon. Just bring your sense of wonder, and be ready to marvel at nature’s greatest show. It can get busy around Christmas and New Year with families building the murmurations into their festive holiday tradition.
When the starlings descended on Tesco
In 2023 starlings descended on Tesco in Clevedon to perform their spectacular evening show, stopping shoppers in their tracks and bringing large crowds of bird watchers to the supermarket's car park. It was the first time in 40 years that the murmurations had been seen in Clevedon and they haven't been back since. To find out more about the starlings in Clevedon click the link.
