Grackles and Starlings Can be a Major Nuisance

Friday, July 16, 2010 by Alex Kecskes
pest grackleCertain birds can become a huge problem unless one implements proper bird control measures. Take starlings and grackles, for example. When these birds are in their flocking phase, they can quickly take over trees, gardens and structures by the thousands.
 
When these birds poop, they can literally "re-paint" a building, leaving a blanket of whitewash that resembles the White Cliffs of Dover. And you can be sure that when that much bird feces is deposited on any surface, the accumulated uric acid in these droppings will eventually lead to corrosion--in stone, metal or masonry. 
 
This avalanche of bird droppings also creates health hazards. The bacteria, fungal agents and ectoparasites found in most droppings can result in the transmission of serious diseases--like histoplasmosis, salmonella, meningitis, encephalitis and toxoplasmosis. 
 
Finally, all those droppings gathering on walkways and entryways create slip-and-fall hazards that can result in costly and time-consuming litigation. 
 
The other problem to consider is that when hundreds or thousands of these birds invade an area, they build nests. And all those nesting materials, feathers and debris can create fire hazards, especially if nests are built too close to electrical equipment or wiring.
 
Fortunately, there are several effective bird control measures available to property owners who fear a grackle or starling invasion.
 
Probably the least expensive bird control devices one can turn to are reflective foil banners, predator-eye balloons and similar products that create an "Optical Distraction Zone" to discourage pest birds. These bird deterrents crackle and shimmer in the sunlight to drive pest birds away. 
 
Also effective bird control device is the Bird Spike. Installed on rooftops, signs, awnings, gutters and ledges, they deny pest birds a landing zone. These spiked strips are harmless to birds and humans and they come in economical rigid U.V.-resistant unbreakable polycarbonate. They are also available in different sizes and colors. 
 

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