Starling Pest Control – Starling Up Trouble

As Starlings tend to begin settling in around early April, we have decided to write an informative news article helping you understand what can be done in terms of starling pest control. This news article will help you to understand how you can bird proof and secure your home or business. This article by the Guardian explains why the skies seem to be full of swooping and soaring starling swarms. Preventing a starling problem is always easier then curing one!

Starlings (Sturnus Vulgaris) are probably best known for the large amount of noise they make, and the large numbers they move in. Starlings are very noisy, gregarious birds, and often arrive in flocks, known as murmurations. These can consist of thousands of birds, which can look amazing from a distance, but are more like a Hitchcock thriller if you experience them close hand.

Starling Identification

Sturnus Vulgaris

Starlings are around 20 cm in size with pointed wings.  Their feathers are very dark drown with white speckles, and an iridescent, metallic, glossy sheen, so when you see a starling, you may see flashes of green or purple.  They have pink legs, short tails and long, thin beaks which are black in winter, and yellow in summertime. Press here for a sample of starling song.

Why are Starlings Considered Pests?

If starlings’ nest in your eaves, their faeces can become a serious health hazard and can cause considerable property damage by defacing and eroding stonework structures.  Starlings can rip out loft insulation and can also introduce other pests to your property; their nests often contain ticks, fleas, and bed bugs, causing a secondary pest problem for you, your family, and pets.

Prevention is Better than Cure!

A starling’s nest is protected by law whilst it is in use, which means that nests can only be removed when you are sure the nest in inactive. Starlings tend to begin to settle around April, therefore it is important to begin preparing for the prevention of a starling infestation early on in the year.

• Proofing: at this time of year, starlings will be scouting out crevices and holes in buildings to find a suitable place to nest, so now is the time to take action to obstruct those openings, if you haven’t already done so. Proofing with netting can help protect buildings. Clean out and seal holes or install mesh at entry points to houses to help prevent starlings from gaining entry to your property. Fitting vent covers and screens can also be useful.
• Slope eaves: starlings often nest under eaves to protect themselves from harsh weather and predators. Installing steeply sloping eaves can prevent starlings from choosing your home.
• Audio deterrents: playing a recording of a bird of prey, or a starling in distress can deter starling from taking up residence in your property.
• Scares: mirrors and reflective surfaces can stop starlings from nesting, as the reflecting light disturbs their vision, and they are unable to access your gutter and eaves. Purchasing mirrored spiral rod ornaments from a garden centre is ideal, as the light will be reflected, it moves in the breeze and has the added bonus of looking attractive!

A big Murmuration of Starlings on Sunset

I have Found Starlings in My Eaves. What Can I Do?

As the nest is protected by law, you will need to wait until the nest is inactive. It is of utmost importance that you prevent access to the area after they have left to help prevent a second brood and future infestations.

Need Assistance Bird Proofing Your Home?

Call Avon Pest Control today without feather a do, on 01926 632 929 or 01789 293 463.  Alternatively, please click here to visit our website or to request a quotation. One of our friendly team members will reply to you by email within 2 hours.

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