Thousands of starlings are gracing the Canterbury skies with stunning aerial displays every afternoon.

The fascinating performances - called murmurations - have mesmerised onlookers above the Kingswood Park estate, near Kingsmead playing field.

As dusk approaches, the birds perform intricate movements, twisting and turning in harmony as they create awe-inspiring shapes to the backdrop of a setting sun.

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Michael Walter, a member of the Canterbury RSPB group, said: “It’s really mesmerising seeing thousands of birds wheeling and swirling around in the darkening sky.

“Next winter they may move to an entirely different part of Kent, so don’t miss out now.”

To catch the birds in action visit Kingsmead car park or the footbridge a short walk away along the riverside path.

They appear at about 4.15pm and typically go down to roost at 5.30pm.

It is expected the size of the flock will diminish as spring approaches.