Get Rid of Starlings

Habitat and Nesting Preferences 

Starlings are opportunistic nesters that frequently take over existing cavities, leading to infestations in both urban and rural settings.

Common Nesting Sites: 

• Urban Areas: Attics, chimneys, vents, and gutters.
• Suburban Areas: Roof overhangs, barns, and garages.
• Commercial & Industrial Sites: Warehouses, parking garages, and large rooftops.
• Natural Areas: Hollow trees, cliff crevices, and abandoned burrows.

Nesting Characteristics

• Starlings build large, messy nests with grass, twigs, feathers, and plastic debris.
• Nests frequently block air vents, chimneys, and drainage systems, posing fire hazards.
• Their aggressive behaviour makes starling removal essential to prevent property damage.

If you suspect a nesting problem, searching for starlings near me can connect you with professionals specializing in starling exterminator services.

Identifying Starling Infestation Signs 

Early detection is key in preventing a full-blown infestation that requires starling removal company intervention.

1. Large Flocks Roosting on Structures

• Starlings often gather in huge, noisy flocks on rooftops, power lines, and trees.
• They are non-migratory, meaning infestations persist unless starling exterminator services are implemented.

2. Excessive Noise

• Loud chattering, whistling, and squawking can indicate an infestation.
• Starlings can mimic car alarms, human speech, and other birds.

3. Droppings Accumulation

• Large amounts of droppings on sidewalks, windows, vehicles, and patios.
• Droppings carry diseases, reinforcing the need for starling removal.

4. Nesting Materials in Gutters & Vents

• Twigs, feathers, and debris are blocking drainage systems.
• Frequent nesting in chimneys and ventilation ducts, causing property hazards.

5. Aggressive Behaviour

• Starlings chase away native birds from feeders and nesting sites.
• Their bold, confrontational nature is a common reason property owners seek starling exterminator company services.

Feeding Habits of Starlings 

Starlings are omnivorous, allowing them to thrive in various environments.

What Do Starlings Eat? 

Insects & Worms: Beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and grubs.

Fruits & Berries: Apples, cherries, grapes, and wild berries.

Grains & Seeds: Wheat, corn, sunflower seeds, and oats.

Garbage & Food Waste: Bread, discarded fast food, and kitchen scraps.

Feeding Behaviour: 

• They feed in large, noisy groups, consuming vast amounts of food quickly.
• Starlings aggressively dominate bird feeders and trash sites, making starling removal company services essential.

 

Potential Dangers of Starlings

Starlings may appear harmless, but their presence can pose significant health risks and cause property damage. Their large flocking behaviour, excessive droppings, and aggressive nature make them one of the most problematic pest birds in urban and rural environments. Without proper starling removal, infestations can quickly escalate, leading to costly repairs and potential health concerns.

Health Risks of Starlings

Starlings are known carriers of disease-causing pathogens, parasites, and bacteria, making their presence a serious concern for public health. Their droppings, nesting materials, and food scavenging habits contribute to unsanitary conditions.

1. Disease Transmission

Starlings can transmit a variety of diseases to humans and animals, primarily through their droppings and contaminated surfaces. Some of the most common diseases linked to starling infestations include:

• Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection affecting the lungs, caused by airborne spores from dried bird droppings. People exposed to contaminated areas (such as air vents, attics, or rooftops) can develop flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, it may lead to chronic lung disease.
• Salmonella: Starlings contaminate food and water sources with their droppings, spreading Salmonella bacteria, which causes food poisoning, diarrhea, and fever.
• E. Coli: Starlings often scavenge through garbage and animal waste, picking up E. Coli bacteria, which can be transferred to human food sources. This can result in severe gastrointestinal illness.
• Avian Influenza (Bird Flu): Starlings, along with other pest birds, can act as carriers of bird flu, which can spread to domestic poultry and, in rare cases, to humans.
• Psittacosis (Parrot Fever): A respiratory disease that spreads through the inhalation of bacteria from dried bird droppings, leading to flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, pneumonia.

For these reasons, property owners experiencing a starling infestation should seek starling exterminator services to prevent exposure to harmful diseases.

2. Parasites and Secondary Pest Infestations

Starlings are hosts to various parasites that can invade homes, businesses, and agricultural sites. Some of the most common parasites associated with starling infestations include:

• Bird Mites & Lice: These tiny parasites thrive in starling nests and can spread to buildings, biting humans and pets. They cause skin irritation, rashes, and allergic reactions.
• Fleas & Ticks: Starlings can introduce fleas and ticks to homes, which may lead to increased risks of Lyme disease and other vector-borne illnesses.
• Flies & Cockroaches: Starling droppings provide a breeding ground for flies, while leftover food scraps attract cockroaches, increasing pest activity around infested properties.

If you notice an increase in pests in your home or business, a starling removal company can help eliminate both the birds and the secondary infestations they attract.

 

Property Damage Caused by Starlings

Starlings are destructive birds that can cause extensive damage to buildings, vehicles, crops, and infrastructure. Their nesting habits, acidic droppings, and aggressive nature make them a significant concern for homeowners, businesses, and farmers.

1. Acidic Droppings Cause Structural Damage

One of the most damaging aspects of a starling infestation is their highly acidic droppings, which:

• Corrode metal surfaces, causing damage to rooftops, pipes, and HVAC systems.
• Erode stone, brick, and concrete, leading to costly repairs on buildings, monuments, and historical structures.
• Stain paint and glass, damaging cars, windows, and signage.
• Create slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of slip-and-fall accidents in parking lots, sidewalks, and staircases.

Large-scale starling infestations require a starling exterminator company intervention to prevent ongoing damage.

2. Clogged Gutters, Vents, and Chimneys

Starlings frequently build nests in hard-to-reach places, which can lead to severe property issues:

• Blocked drainage systems → Can cause water damage, leaks, and mold growth.
• Obstructed chimneys & air vents → Increases fire hazards and reduces air circulation in buildings.
• Clogged rooftop HVAC units → Reduces efficiency and raises energy costs.

To prevent costly repairs, seeking starling exterminator services can ensure proper removal and exclusion strategies.

3. Damage to Agriculture & Gardens

Farmers and gardeners often experience severe crop loss due to starling infestations. These birds:

• Destroy grain and seed crops such as wheat, barley, and corn.
• Ruin fruit orchards by feeding on apples, cherries, grapes, and berries.
• Compete with livestock by consuming cattle and poultry feed.
• Peck at seedlings, reducing crop yields and increasing replanting costs.

If starlings are affecting your crops, hiring a starling removal company can help protect your agricultural investments.

4. Aggressive Behaviour & Disruption to Native Wildlife

Starlings are territorial and aggressive, frequently driving away native birds and wildlife. Their impact includes:

• Outcompeting native birds such as bluebirds, woodpeckers, and swallows for food and nesting sites.
• Attacking other birds and stealing their eggs or young.
• Disrupting ecosystems by altering natural bird populations.

To restore balance to local wildlife, hiring a starling exterminator can prevent their spread.

 

Starling Removal Process: How to Manage and Control Starling Infestations

Starlings are highly intelligent and adaptable birds, making them difficult to remove without a well-planned approach. Their ability to nest in high, hard-to-reach areas, combined with their large flocking behaviour, requires comprehensive removal strategies to prevent reinfestation. Whether you’re dealing with starlings in a residential, commercial, or agricultural setting, starling removal should be handled professionally to ensure effective and lasting results.

Here’s how to manage and control a starling infestation effectively:

1. Habitat Modification: Eliminating Attractants

One of the first steps in starling exterminator services is making your property less appealing to these invasive birds. Since starlings are opportunistic feeders and adaptable nesters, removing food sources and potential nesting areas is crucial.

Secure Food Sources:

• Keep garbage bins tightly closed and clean up food scraps from outdoor eating areas.
• Store livestock feed in sealed containers to prevent contamination.
• Avoid feeding wild birds, as starlings often dominate bird feeders.

Limit Water Availability:

• Drain standing water in birdbaths, puddles, or outdoor fountains.
• Repair leaky pipes or irrigation systems that provide water sources for starlings.

Block Nesting Sites:

• Seal entry points to attics, vents, chimneys, and crawl spaces where starlings may build nests.
• Cover eaves, ledges, and rooftop overhangs with deterrents to prevent roosting.
• Install netting or screens to block access to warehouses, barns, and commercial buildings.

2. Exclusion Techniques: Keeping Starlings Out

Preventing starlings from nesting or roosting in unwanted areas is a key part of starling exterminator services. Various exclusion techniques can be implemented to physically block their access.

Bird Spikes:

• Placed on ledges, rooftops, signs, and beams to prevent starlings from perching.
• Ideal for residential homes, commercial buildings, and parking garages.

Bird Netting:

• Installed over open areas such as courtyards, warehouses, and stadiums to prevent flocking.
• Effectively keeps starlings away from gardens, balconies, and fruit trees.

Screen: Apply galvanized hardware cloth to exclude nesting areas.

• Cover chimneys, vents, and air ducts to block nesting access.
• Close small openings in walls or rooftops that may serve as entry points.

Bird Slope: Make flat surfaces uncomfortable for starlings to land on.

Optical Gel: Multi sensory device that deters birds using sight, smell and touch.

If you’re dealing with starlings near me concerns, professional bird-proofing solutions can safeguard your property from infestation.

3. Visual Deterrents: Driving Starlings Away

Since starlings are highly intelligent birds, using visual deterrents increases the effectiveness in scaring them away.

Visual Deterrents:

• Reflective tape, reflective discs, spinning pinwheels, or hanging shiny devices can disorient starlings.

While these methods can be useful, starlings can adapt quickly, which is why starling exterminator company specialists recommend combining deterrents with exclusion techniques for long-term success.

4. Humane Trapping & Removal

In cases of severe infestations, humane trapping methods may be necessary for starling removal. Professional starling exterminator services use specialized traps that comply with local wildlife regulations.

Live Trapping:

• Large cage traps are placed in high-traffic areas where starlings roost or feed.
• Baited with grains or food sources that attract the birds.
• Once captured, starlings are safely removed and relocated.

One-Way Exits:

• Installed in attics, vents, or enclosed spaces to allow starlings to leave but not re-enter.
• Works effectively for homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.

Since trapping requires expertise, it’s best handled by a starling removal company to ensure humane and legal removal.

 

Professional Assistance: Long-Term Starling Control

If starling exterminator services are needed, professionals will assess the infestation, apply exclusion techniques, and implement customized deterrents to prevent future problems.

✔ Comprehensive Property Inspection → Identifies starling nesting and roosting sites.

✔ Customized Removal Plan → Tailored to your specific location and infestation size.

✔ Ongoing Prevention Strategies → Ensure long-term protection against reinfestation.

When searching for starlings near me, always choose a licensed starling exterminator company to handle infestations safely and effectively.

Why Choose Professional Starling Control? 

• Experts provide legal, humane removal methods.
• Starling exterminator services offer customized solutions for long-term prevention.
• A professional starling removal company ensures compliance with wildlife laws.

When to Call for Help: 

✔️ Large flocks roosting on your property

✔️ Persistent droppings are creating sanitation concerns

✔️ Blocked gutters, chimneys, or vents

✔️ Aggressive starling behaviour driving away native birds