Published on: 2026-10-18
Source: Moscow Government – Правительства Москвы –
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Migratory birds that spent the warm season in the green areas of the capital have embarked on their winter migration to southern regions. Among those that have left are the common starling, as well as two species listed in the Moscow Red Book — the Eurasian skylark and the northern lapwing.
Ornithologists are paying special attention to the northern lapwing. In the summer of 2026, specialists Department of Nature Management and Environmental Protection We spotted a lapwing with chicks near a reservoir in the Kosino-Ukhtomsky district. This bird, belonging to the plover family, is recognizable by its black beak and crest of long feathers. Lapwings usually arrive in spring — with the appearance of the first thawed patches — and move in small flocks flying low over the ground. During sudden spring cold snaps, they may temporarily fly further south, resuming migration as the weather warms. European populations winter in the Mediterranean basin, Western Europe, and Asia Minor.
The skylark is slightly larger than a sparrow. Its unobtrusive plumage serves as excellent camouflage in the grass. Females are smaller than males and do not sing. These birds demonstrate a strong fidelity to their nesting sites and traditionally return to Moscow among the first in spring. Moscow skylarks winter in Western, Central, and Southern Europe, as well as in Mediterranean countries.
The common starling, widespread in Eurasia, is a migratory bird in Moscow, although in Southern and Western Europe it leads a sedentary lifestyle. These small birds with dark iridescent plumage migrate annually to southern Europe and northern Africa. Their beak turns yellow only in spring, during the mating season, and remains dark in autumn. Starlings are known for their gift of imitation — they masterfully mimic whistles, creaks, and other sounds of nature.
In case a wounded or weakened bird is found, it is necessary to report it to the unified reference service of the Moscow Government by phone: +7 495 777-77-77.
The bird migration season has begun in Moscow
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