This stunning photograph of a starling murmuration near Llandegley was sent to us by reader David Leitch.

At dusk these beautiful birds arrive in their thousands, creating giant murmurations. It’s a sight to behold and the bird song as they land to roost is incredible to hear.

This wildlife spectacle has interested scientists for years. Questions, such as why these great congregations occur and how starlings know when to turn in unison without colliding, have been the subject of much debate.

Starlings have veryfast reaction times and can make changes in their flight direction in a split second.

It is now generally thought that flocking helps to protect the starlings from predators - we know the old saying that there’s safety in numbers.

This photo was taken near Llandegley and Llanfihangel Nant Melan on January 6 2024.