Bird feeders let us enjoy different feathered friends in our backyard. But starlings can be a problem. They monopolize the feeders and eat up all the food. So, how do we keep them away?
One way is to use feeders with smaller perches and openings. This makes it hard for starlings to get to the food. Then, smaller birds can eat without interruption.
Also, choose seed mixes that don’t include starling-favorites. This way, they won’t be attracted to the feeder.
We can also create physical barriers so starlings can’t get to the food. For example, putting wire mesh cages around the feeder with tiny openings.
Remember: Clean the feeders often. This keeps the area healthy and prevents starlings from coming.
Understanding Starlings and their Behavior
Starlings are fascinating birds. They have special behavior and traits. They’re tiny and like to be around others. They can be a pleasure or a pain for bird lovers. It’s essential to understand them, so they won’t come near your bird feeders.
Starlings are sociable. They fly in large groups. And they’re smart. They can learn new things and solve puzzles. It’s hard to keep them away with normal strategies.
Starlings are also good communicators. They use sounds and body language to communicate. This helps them share about food sources, like bird feeders.
So, it’s important to use ways that stop starlings from eating from your bird feeders. Specialized feeder designs work well. They let small birds in but keep starlings out. You could also try noise or visual deterrents. Staying one step ahead, changing your tactics, may keep starlings away.
The Impact of Starlings on Bird Feeders
Starlings can cause many issues for bird feeders. They’re known for being aggressive, and they often come in large numbers. This can scare away smaller birds and they consume a large part of the food, leaving little room for other birds. Plus, they’re messy eaters, scattering food on the ground. This can attract pests like rodents and insects.
Fun Fact: Starlings weren’t native to North America – they were introduced in the 19th century by a Shakespeare enthusiast. He wanted every bird mentioned in his works to be present in the US.
Preventing Starlings from Accessing Bird Feeders
Stop starlings from eating at your bird feeders with these three tactics:
- Get feeders with small openings to keep starlings out.
- Use weight-activated feeders that close when heavier birds like starlings land on them.
- Place feeders near dense shrubs or trees so starlings don’t visit.
Try giving food only to other birds. Finches and chickadees prefer nyjer seed, which starlings don’t eat.
Jane was fed up with starlings eating at her bird feeders. She switched to weight-activated feeders. And put them in areas with thick vegetation. Result: Starling visitors dropped right away. Other birds could finally enjoy their food without them.
Creating a Starling-Free Environment
My friend had a genius plan to keep starlings away from her bird feeders! She set up reflective objects like CDs and mirrors around the feeders. This created an optical distraction which confused the starlings and prevented them from coming near the feeders.
To stop starlings from visiting your own feeders, try these steps:
- Get a feeder with small perches and narrow access points.
- Offer seeds and suet that your desired bird species prefer.
- Put baffles or barriers around the feeder.
- Distract starlings away from the main feeders by setting up a separate feeding station.
- Adjust the time when you fill your bird feeders.
Remember, starlings are smart and adaptive. So, you may have to experiment with different strategies to find the best solution for your situation.
Conclusion
To ward off starlings, try these tips!
Use bird feeders made for smaller birds with no perches or adjustable entrances.
Offer food starlings don’t like, like safflower and nyjer seeds.
Baffles and cages can also help keep starlings away.
Check in with a local bird expert for up-to-date info on bird feeding practices.
Finding a balance between attracting desired species and deterring unwanted ones is key.
Fun Fact: Starlings are from Europe, but were introduced to North America in the 1800s. Now, they’re one of the most widespread and abundant birds around!
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ 1:
Q: How do I keep starlings off my bird feeders?
A: Here are a few effective methods:
– Use feeders with small openings that starlings can’t access.
– Hang feeders under an overhang or use a baffle to prevent starlings from reaching them.
– Avoid using bird feed mixtures that starlings prefer, such as cracked corn or millet.
– Place feeders in areas where starlings have limited access, like near dense shrubs or under tree canopies.
– Install a feeding station designed specifically to discourage larger birds like starlings.
– Consider using visual deterrents, like reflective tape or predator silhouettes, to scare away starlings.
FAQ 2:
Q: Can I use bird feeders that are starling-resistant?
A: Yes, there are bird feeders available in the market specifically designed to deter starlings.
These feeders usually have mechanisms or designs that prevent larger birds like starlings from accessing the food while allowing smaller birds to feed comfortably.
You can find starling-resistant feeders in various styles and sizes, suitable for different types of bird feed.
FAQ 3:
Q: Is it possible to scare starlings away naturally?
A: Yes, there are several natural methods to deter starlings:
– Plant trees or shrubs with thorny branches near your feeders, as starlings may find it uncomfortable to approach.
– Hang wind chimes or aluminum foil strips that create noise and movement.
– Install birdhouses specifically designed for smaller birds to attract them away from your feeders.
– Use ultrasonic bird repellents that emit high-frequency sounds inaudible to humans but annoying to starlings.
– Provide ample nesting materials in a separate location to distract starlings from your feeders.
FAQ 4:
Q: Should I remove the bird feeders altogether to keep starlings away?
A: Removing the bird feeders entirely may not be necessary.
While starlings can be bothersome, many other bird species also benefit from feeders.
Instead, try implementing various deterrents or adjusting the type of food you offer to discourage starlings while still attracting other desired bird species.
Experimenting with different strategies can help strike a balance between deterring starlings and providing a welcoming environment for other birds.
FAQ 5:
Q: Are there any specific foods or seeds that starlings dislike?
A: Starlings have preferences for certain types of food, so avoiding them may help reduce their presence:
– Starlings generally dislike safflower seeds, so using safflower-based bird feed may deter them.
– Opt for seeds like nyjer (thistle) that are favored by finches but not preferred by starlings.
– Avoid cracked corn or millet, as starlings find these enticing.
FAQ 6:
Q: Can I legally remove starlings from my property?
A: In most countries, including the United States, the invasive nature of starlings allows them to be legally removed.
However, it is essential to check your local regulations or consult with relevant authorities to ensure legality and understand any specific guidelines or permits required.
