Year 2026

A close wildlife portrait of two European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) perched on leafless garden branches in October. The upper bird faces left with iridescent green and bronze feather edges and white speckles, while the lower bird has its bill slightly open as if calling. The branches show dormant buds, hinting at a deciduous fruit tree. Soft, diffused autumn light and a creamy background create a calm yet lively mood, emphasizing the birds’ social interaction. Main outgoing emotion: a serene, alert vitality of autumn wildlife. Photo copyrighted by Hans Enderl.

This stunning close-up photograph, copyrighted by Hans Enderl, captures a European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) perched on a slender, bare tree branch. The bird is shown in profile, facing left, with its beak slightly open as if in mid-song or call. Its plumage is a striking display of iridescent greens, blues, and purples, speckled with numerous white spots, particularly prominent on its head and back. The starling's eye is dark and alert, and its legs grip the branch firmly. The branch itself shows small, reddish-brown buds, indicating late autumn or early spring. The background is softly blurred, creating a bokeh effect with muted tones of dark blue, green, and brown, which beautifully isolates the bird and highlights its vibrant colors. The overall mood is one of natural beauty and lively presence.