Starlings return for spectacular Belfast murmuration

An iconic murmuration of starlings above the Belfast skyline has returned, a year after concerns that it had been displaced.

The gathering of thousands of the birds creates a spectacular display above Albert Bridge.

However, in February 2023, BBC News NI reported that light pollution was feared to have disturbed the phenomenon.

In recent weeks, the starlings have returned to their roost at the bridge in large numbers.

Red filters were placed on lights at the side of the bridge, with blanking screens on lanterns underneath.

On Monday, environmentalist Colin Shaw, of Wild Belfast, said he believed the murmuration would not be “taken for granted”.