Starlings in North Carolina

While starlings can be fascinating to observe, they can become a nuisance when they invade our spaces or run off other birds. Understanding how to get rid of starlings and manage their presence is vital for maintaining a safe and comfortable environment.

At A-1 Pest Control, based in Lenoir and serving the greater Western North Carolina, our pest management team is dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by starlings that can cause problems for homeowners and businesses alike. Join us as we first delve into the habits and behavior starlings exhibit.

Understanding Starlings' Habit and Behavior

Starlings are known for their adaptability and social behavior. They are often seen in large, noisy flocks. Their ability to thrive in diverse environments makes them common in urban, suburban, and rural areas. By understanding their habits and behavior, you can better identify and manage starling infestations on your property.

Identifying Starlings

Starlings are medium-sized birds with striking, shiny black feathers with a green and purple sheen. During specific times of the year, specifically the non-breeding season, their feathers are dotted with white spots. These birds are highly social and often seen in large flocks. They have short tails, pointed wings, and a long, slender beak.

Starlings are highly adaptable and thrive in various urban, agricultural, and suburban neighborhoods. Their adaptability to different environments contributes to their widespread presence across North Carolina.

Starlings Behavior

Starlings are known for being aggressive. They compete fiercely with native bird species for nesting sites and food. Their loud, varied vocalizations can be heard in a chorus of whistles, clicks, and an imitation of other sounds, including different bird species and even mechanical noises. This vocal versatility makes them unique but also disruptive in residential areas.

During the breeding season, starlings can raise multiple broods yearly, rapidly increasing their population growth. They prefer to nest in cavities, which include natural sites like tree holes and artificial structures like building crevices, vents, and even the eaves of houses.

Signs of a Starling Infestation

Identifying a starling infestation early can help manage and mitigate the damage. Common signs of a starling infestation include:

Droppings: Starlings produce significant droppings, which can quickly accumulate under roosting and nesting sites. These droppings can damage buildings and vehicles and pose health risks.
Feather Debris: Feathers and nesting materials throughout your property can signal a starling presence.
Large Flocks: Starlings are often seen in large groups, especially during migration and in urban areas. If you notice large flocks of birds roosting on your property, they are likely starlings.
Nesting Materials: Starlings build their nests using grass, twigs, and other debris. Finding these materials around your home or business can indicate nesting activity.
Nest Locations: Inspect areas such as eaves, vents, attics, and chimneys for nesting activity. Starlings often choose these sites because they are near food sources and shelter.
Noise: Starlings' constant chatter and mimicking sounds can be a nuisance. It may be due to an infestation if you hear persistent, loud bird noises.

Starlings Infestations: Risks and Damages

Starlings can cause various issues when they infest residential or commercial properties. Some of the most common problems associated with starling infestations include:

Property Damage: Nesting in gutters, vents, and eaves can lead to clogs and water damage. Their droppings are also acidic and can corrode building materials.
Health Risks: Starlings carry diseases that can harm humans and pets. Their droppings can cause respiratory issues and food poisoning, and they harbor fungi that can lead to histoplasmosis, a respiratory condition that can be detrimental to humans.
Noise and Nuisance: Large flocks of starlings can create noise, particularly in the early morning hours.
Aggressive Behavior: Starlings often drive away native bird species from feeders and nesting sites, disrupting local ecosystems.

How to Get Rid of Starlings

Dealing with a starling infestation can be challenging, but several methods can help manage and reduce their populations effectively:

Habitat Modification

Remove Food Sources: Seal trash cans, eliminate bird feeders, and reduce standing water. This will make the environment less attractive to starlings.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Reducing vegetation near buildings can limit potential nesting sites.

Exclusion Techniques

Install Bird Netting: To prevent starling access, cover potential nesting areas such as vents, eaves, and roof spaces with bird netting.
Use Bird Spikes: Place spikes on ledges, window sills, and other flat surfaces to deter roosting.
Seal Openings: Close small gaps and building openings to block entry points.

Scare Tactics

Visual Deterrents: Use reflective tape, scare balloons, or predator decoys to frighten starlings away.
Auditory Deterrents: Employ ultrasonic devices or recorded predator calls to keep starlings at bay.

Trapping and Removal

Humane Trapping: Use live traps to capture starlings. Professionals at A-1 Pest Control should conduct this method to ensure humane and thorough removal.
Chemical Repellents: To discourage starlings, apply non-toxic chemical repellents to roosting and nesting sites.

Our Starling Prevention and Removal Services

At A-1 Pest Control, we offer comprehensive prevention and removal services to address and manage starling infestations successfully. Here’s why A-1 Pest Control stands out as your go-to bird control company in North Carolina:

Comprehensive Inspection: Our experienced technicians thoroughly inspect your property to identify nesting or roosting areas and potential entry points.
Customized Prevention Strategies: We create a personalized treatment plan, which may include bird netting, bird spikes, and exclusion services to prevent starlings from returning.
Safe and Humane Starling Removal: We use humane trapping methods and deterrents, such as bird netting and spikes, to safely relocate starlings and prevent them from landing on ledges and rooflines.
Effective Bird Deterrents: To keep starlings away, we offer a range of visual and auditory deterrents, including reflective tape and ultrasonic devices.
Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance: Our services include regular follow-up visits to monitor the progress of the implemented measures. We adjust our strategies to ensure long-term protection and promptly address new infestations.

Contact Our Western North Carolina Starling Removal Experts Today

Don't let starlings damage your property and disrupt your peace. If you need assistance with starling control or preventive measures in North Carolina, the comprehensive pest control plans provided by A-1 Pest Control can help.

Our offices are in Lenoir, Hendersonville, Hickory, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, and Mooresville, but we serve much of the surrounding area.

Contact us today at 828-481-9140 or fill out the form below to learn more about our bird control services in Western North Carolina. Our exterminators will help you eliminate starlings and other pests that don't belong in your home.