In May 1784, Mozart purchased a starling from a pet shop in Vienna. He became quite fond of the bird, which he affectionately named "Star." Mozart was fascinated by Star's ability to mimic tunes, and he even incorporated some of the bird's melodies into his compositions. 

Mozart's relationship with his pet starling is documented in his letters to his wife, Constanze, where he affectionately describes the bird's antics and singing abilities. He was particularly amused by Star's ability to sing the opening bars of his Piano Concerto No. 17 in G major, K. 453, and he reportedly said that the starling had "taught him" the melody. 

Star died less than three years after Mozart acquired him. Mozart was deeply saddened by the bird's death and arranged a lavish funeral for him, complete with a solemn procession and a proper burial. 

He composed a poetic epitaph for Star, which read, "Here lies a little starling, who, in his life, was the delight of his owner, and who, in death, received a tribute of regret."