How to Get Rid of Starlings: Effective & Humane Methods

If you're wondering how to get rid of starlings birds from your property, the most effective approach combines humane deterrents, habitat modification, and exclusion strategies. European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are invasive, aggressive birds that often outcompete native species for nesting sites and food. To successfully manage starling populations around homes, farms, or commercial buildings, use a combination of visual scare devices, sound repellents, bird netting, and sealing entry pointsâespecially during early spring before nesting begins. These long-term solutions help discourage starlings without harming them, aligning with wildlife protection laws in the U.S. and Canada.

Understanding Starlings: Biology and Behavior

Before implementing any control method, it's essential to understand what makes starlings such persistent pests. Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, European starlings were introduced to North America in the late 1800s by enthusiasts who wanted all birds mentioned in Shakespeareâs works to be present in the United States. Since their release in New York Cityâs Central Park in 1890, theyâve spread across the continent, now numbering over 200 million.

Starlings are medium-sized songbirds, about 7â9 inches long, with iridescent black plumage speckled with white or yellow spots during winter. In flight, their short tails and pointed wings give them a distinctive star-like appearanceâhence the name. Theyâre highly intelligent, social birds that travel in large flocks, especially in fall and winter, forming massive murmurations that can contain tens of thousands of individuals.

Their adaptability is one reason theyâre so hard to deter. Starlings thrive in urban, suburban, and rural environments. They eat insects, fruits, seeds, and human food waste, making them common around farms, landfills, parks, and backyard feeders. Their aggressive nesting behavior often displaces bluebirds, woodpeckers, swallows, and other cavity-nesting species, raising ecological concerns.

Why Controlling Starlings Matters

While starlings may seem harmless, uncontrolled populations pose several problems:

Agricultural damage: They consume vast quantities of grain, fruit, and sprouting crops.
Property damage: Nesting in eaves, vents, and attics can lead to structural issues and fire hazards from wiring chewed by birds.

Health risks:

Noise pollution: Large roosts create significant noise, especially at dawn and dusk.
Ecological impact: They compete aggressively for nest cavities, reducing biodiversity.

Because of these impacts, many homeowners and farmers seek reliable ways to get rid of starlings birds without violating legal protections.

Legal Considerations When Removing Starlings

A common misconception is that all birds are protected equally under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). However, European starlings are not protected under this law due to their invasive status. This means it is legal to deter, remove, or exclude them from structures in the U.S., provided methods used are humane and do not involve unnecessary cruelty.

That said, regulations can vary by state or municipality. Some areas require permits for trapping or lethal removal, even for non-native species. Always check with your local fish and wildlife agency or extension office before beginning any large-scale control program. In Canada, provincial laws may also impose restrictions, so consult Environment and Climate Change Canada or local authorities.

Humane and Effective Methods to Get Rid of Starlings

There is no single solution that works forever. A multi-pronged strategy tailored to your environment yields the best results. Below are proven techniques categorized by type.

1. Exclusion: Seal Entry Points

Preventing access is the most permanent way to get rid of starlings birds. Inspect your home or building for openings larger than 1 inch, especially under eaves, rooflines, soffits, vents, and chimneys.

Use heavy-duty hardware cloth (1/2-inch mesh) to cover vents and openings.
Install chimney caps and vent guards made specifically for bird exclusion.
Seal gaps with silicone caulk, expandable foam, or metal flashing.
Close barn doors at night and install sliding metal panels over large openings if needed.

Timing matters: Complete exclusion efforts in late summer or early fall, after young have fledged but before new nesting begins in spring.

2. Habitat Modification

Make your property less attractive to starlings by removing food, water, and shelter sources.

Avoid bird feeders that attract starlings, such as those offering cracked corn, suet, or platform feeders. Use tube feeders with small ports designed for finches and chickadees instead.
Clean up spilled seed daily and store pet food indoors.
Remove standing water sources like birdbaths or clogged gutters where possible.
Trim trees and shrubs near buildings to reduce perching spots.
Harvest fruit promptly and clean up fallen berries or apples.

3. Visual Deterrents

These exploit starlingsâ natural fear of predators or sudden movement.

Reflective tape: Hang strips that flutter and reflect sunlight. Effective for gardens and orchards.
Scare-eye balloons: Inflateable balloons with predator eyes painted on them. Move them regularly to maintain effectiveness.
Decoy predators: Plastic owls or hawks work best when paired with motion (e.g., on a rotating base) and relocated frequently.
Laser systems: Automated green lasers activate at dusk and dawn, scaring birds from roosting areas. Expensive but effective for large facilities.

Note: Birds habituate quickly to static objects, so rotate or reposition visual deterrents every few days.

4. Sound Repellents

Ultrasonic devices are generally ineffective for birds. Instead, use audible distress calls or predator sounds.

Electronic bird repellers broadcast starling alarm calls or hawk screams.
Program timers to play intermittently during peak activity (early morning and late afternoon).
Position speakers facing roosting or feeding zones.

Effectiveness diminishes over time as birds become accustomed to repeated sounds. Combine with other methods for better results.

5. Netting and Physical Barriers

Bird netting is one of the most reliable long-term solutions, especially for open structures like porches, loading docks, or barns.

Use UV-resistant polyethylene netting with 3/4-inch mesh.
Ensure tight installation with no slack, as starlings can squeeze through gaps.
Anchor securely using clips or tension wires.

Netting is ideal for preventing roosting under bridges, eaves, or stadium roofs. Professional installation is recommended for large areas.

6. Trapping and Relocation (Use with Caution)

Live traps baited with grain or pet food can capture starlings, but this method raises ethical and logistical concerns.

Trapped birds must be handled humanely and released far enough away (often >5 miles) to prevent return.
In some states, relocation requires a permit.
Killing trapped birds is allowed under federal law but regulated locally; check municipal codes.

Due to disease risk and potential harm to non-target species, trapping should be a last resort and ideally managed by licensed professionals.

Common Mistakes When Trying to Get Rid of Starlings

Many people waste time and money on ineffective or counterproductive tactics. Avoid these pitfalls:

Using poison: Illegal and dangerous. It can kill pets, livestock, and protected birds.
Ignoring timing: Nesting season (MarchâJuly) is protected in many areasâeven though starlings arenât covered by MBTA, disturbing active nests may still violate local ordinances.
Over-relying on one method: Starlings adapt quickly. Integrated pest management (IPM) works best.
Feeding birds indiscriminately: Providing food attracts starlings and supports larger populations.

Regional Differences in Starling Management

What works in rural Texas may not apply in urban Massachusetts. Consider these regional factors:

Northern states: Starlings migrate south in winter, reducing pressure seasonally.
Southern states: Year-round populations mean constant management is needed.
Agricultural regions: Farmers may coordinate with USDA Wildlife Services for large-scale abatement programs.
Urban areas: Noise-sensitive locations favor silent deterrents like netting over audio repellers.

Contact your stateâs Cooperative Extension Service for region-specific guidance on managing starlings in 2024.

When to Call a Professional

DIY methods work well for small infestations, but large roosts (hundreds or thousands of birds), attic colonies, or commercial properties often require expert intervention. Licensed wildlife removal specialists can:

Assess entry points and recommend exclusion plans.
Install permanent barriers like netting or spikes.
Provide humane trapping and relocation services.
Decontaminate areas affected by droppings.

Fees vary by location and scope, typically ranging from $150 to $1,000+. Get multiple quotes and verify credentials through your stateâs Department of Agriculture or Better Business Bureau.

Alternatives: Encouraging Native Species

Rather than just removing starlings, consider enhancing habitats for native birds that naturally resist invasion. Install nest boxes designed for eastern bluebirds, tree swallows, or purple martinsâspecies whose entrance holes are too small for starlings (use 1.5-inch diameter holes).

Place boxes away from buildings and human activity.
Monitor regularly to ensure starlings haven't taken over.
Participate in citizen science projects like NestWatch to track success.

This proactive approach helps restore ecological balance while reducing reliance on deterrents.

FAQs About Getting Rid of Starlings

Can I legally kill starlings?

Yes, European starlings are not protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so lethal control is permitted federally. However, local laws may restrict shooting or poisoning. Always confirm with your state wildlife agency before proceeding.

What smells do starlings hate?

There is little scientific evidence that scents repel starlings. Products claiming to use mint, ammonia, or essential oils lack proven efficacy. Focus on visual, auditory, and physical barriers instead.

Do fake owls work to keep starlings away?

Initially, yesâbut only if moved frequently. Stationary decoys become ignored within days. Pair them with motion devices or reflective materials for better results.

How fast do starlings reproduce?

Starlings typically raise 1â2 broods per year, with 4â6 eggs per clutch. Chicks fledge in about 3 weeks. Rapid breeding contributes to population growth, so early intervention is key.

Are there natural predators of starlings?

Yes. Hawks, falcons, domestic cats, and snakes prey on starlings, especially juveniles. While predation doesnât eliminate populations, supporting raptors through conservation can help maintain balance.

In summary, knowing how to get rid of starlings birds involves understanding their biology, using integrated, humane methods, and adapting strategies based on location and season. By combining exclusion, deterrents, and habitat management, you can significantly reduce starling presence and protect both property and native wildlife in 2024 and beyond.