How To Keep Starlings Off Bird Feeders

How To Keep Starlings Off Bird Feeders

Starlings can be a nuisance at bird feeders, causing problems for both birds and bird enthusiasts. Understanding the reasons to keep starlings away from bird feeders and implementing effective methods to deter them is essential. Here is an overview of the article on how to keep starlings off bird feeders, drawing insights from birding experts and research studies.

Why Keep Starlings off Bird Feeders? Starlings are known to monopolize bird feeders, preventing other bird species from accessing the food, and disrupting the balance in the ecosystem. Their aggressive behavior and large flock size can cause a variety of problems at bird feeders, making it necessary to find solutions to deter them.

Methods to Keep Starlings off Bird Feeders:

  1. Use Specialty Bird Feeders: Select bird feeders designed to deter starlings, such as caged feeders with small openings that only allow smaller birds to access the food.
  2. Modify Existing Bird Feeders: Make modifications to existing feeders, such as adding weight-sensitive perches or barriers to keep starlings from accessing the food.
  3. Create Physical Barriers: Install physical barriers, such as cages or baffles, around bird feeders to prevent starlings from reaching the food.
  4. Implement Feeding Schedules: Establish specific feeding schedules to reduce the likelihood of attracting starlings, as they are less likely to visit feeders with limited food availability.
  5. Use Bird Feeders with Weight-Activated Mechanisms: Opt for bird feeders equipped with weight-activated mechanisms that close off access to the food when a heavier bird, like a starling, lands on the feeder.
  6. Grow Diverse Plants and Trees: Cultivate a variety of native plants and trees in your yard to attract a diverse array of birds and discourage starlings from monopolizing the feeders.

Other Ways to Deter Starlings: In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are a few additional strategies to deter starlings:

  1. Avoid Using Food that Attracts Starlings: Limit the use of food, like suet and cracked corn, that tends to attract starlings.
  2. Use Noise and Visual Deterrents: Deploy noise and visual deterrents, such as wind chimes, reflective tape, or scarecrows, to startle and discourage starlings from approaching the feeders.
  3. Employ Other Bird Species as “Decoys”: Encourage the presence of other bird species that starlings find less desirable, as their presence can deter starlings from the feeders.

By employing these methods and strategies, you can successfully keep starlings off your bird feeders and create a welcoming environment for a diverse range of bird species.

Key takeaway:

  • Keeping starlings off bird feeders is important: Starlings can cause problems at bird feeders, so it’s crucial to find ways to deter them.
  • Use specialty bird feeders: Investing in specialty bird feeders can help keep starlings away from the food intended for other bird species.
  • Modify existing bird feeders: Making changes to existing bird feeders, such as adding barriers or weight-activated mechanisms, can prevent starlings from accessing the food.

Why Keep Starlings off Bird Feeders?

Starlings can be a nuisance when it comes to bird feeders. So, why keep starlings off bird feeders? Here are a few reasons:

  • Food competition: Starlings are known to be aggressive eaters and can consume large quantities of bird food in a short period of time. By keeping them off bird feeders, you can ensure that other bird species have a fair chance to feed.
  • Native bird preservation: Starlings are an invasive species in many areas and can outcompete native birds for resources. By discouraging starlings from bird feeders, you are helping to protect the natural balance of bird populations.
  • Hygiene concerns: Starlings can carry diseases and parasites that can be harmful to other birds. By preventing them from accessing bird feeders, you can reduce the risk of spreading infections among the avian community.
  • Saving money: Starlings’ large appetites can lead to increased bird food consumption and ultimately result in higher costs. By deterring starlings from bird feeders, you can minimize expenses associated with refilling feeders frequently.
  • Pleasant birdwatching experience: Starlings tend to dominate feeders, causing other bird species to shy away. By keeping starlings off bird feeders, you can attract a greater variety of birds, enhancing your birdwatching experience.

What Problems Can Starlings Cause at Bird Feeders?

  • Starlings can cause a variety of problems at bird feeders.
  • One issue is that they dominate the feeders, driving away other bird species and monopolizing the food source.
  • They consume excessive amounts of bird seed, leaving very little for other birds to eat.
  • Aggression towards other birds is another problem caused by starlings. They engage in physical altercations, causing stress and harm to smaller species.
  • Their large numbers can create a mess around bird feeders as they scatter seeds and leave droppings behind.
  • Starlings are known for raiding nests and stealing eggs and baby birds from other species, which reduces their populations.
  • Additionally, starlings can damage bird feeders by pecking at or breaking parts in their attempts to access the food inside.

To prevent these problems caused by starlings at bird feeders, various measures can be taken. Specialty bird feeders that only allow access to smaller birds can be used. Existing feeders can be modified to discourage starling entry. Physical barriers like cages or netting can be implemented. Feeding schedules can also be set to limit food availability. Weight-activated mechanisms that close the feeder when larger birds land on it can be utilized. Furthermore, growing diverse plants and trees can provide alternative food sources for birds. To deter starlings, it is advised to avoid using food that specifically attracts them, utilize noise and visual deterrents, and employ other bird species as “decoys” at the feeders.

Methods to Keep Starlings off Bird Feeders

When it comes to keeping starlings off bird feeders, there are various methods you can employ. From using specialty bird feeders to modifying existing ones, creating physical barriers, and implementing feeding schedules, there are several strategies to deter these feathery invaders. Bird feeders equipped with weight-activated mechanisms, along with growing diverse plants and trees, can also be effective in deterring starlings. So, let’s dive into these methods and explore how they can help us preserve our bird feeders for our avian friends.

1. Use Specialty Bird Feeders

To deter starlings from bird feeders, it is recommended to utilize specialty bird feeders specifically designed for this purpose. There are several options available:

  1. Squirrel-proof bird feeders: These feeders are equipped with mechanisms that close off access to the food when they sense a heavy weight, such as that of a starling. By doing so, they prevent starlings from consuming the food meant for smaller bird species.
  2. Caged bird feeders: These feeders feature wire mesh or cages surrounding the feeding ports, which allow smaller birds to enter and feed, while effectively keeping starlings out. The gaps in the mesh are strategically designed to prevent starlings from reaching the food.
  3. Selective bird feeders: These feeders offer adjustable perches or feeding ports that can be set to accommodate smaller birds while deterring larger ones like starlings from feeding. This feature enables you to customize the bird feeder to attract specific bird species.
  4. Weight-activated bird feeders: These feeders have perches or feeding ports that collapse when heavier birds land on them, effectively preventing starlings from accessing the food. Only lighter birds can access the food without triggering this mechanism.

By using specialty bird feeders, you can ensure that only the desired bird species have access to the food, thus allowing you to attract and support a diverse range of birds while successfully keeping starlings away from the bird feeders.

2. Modify Existing Bird Feeders

  1. To modify existing bird feeders and deter starlings, follow these steps:
  2. Adjust the size of the feeding ports: Starlings have larger beaks compared to other bird species, so reduce the size of the feeding ports to prevent them from accessing the food. Use a drill or specialized tool to make the holes smaller.
  3. Add a weight-activated mechanism: Attach a weight-sensitive perch or platform to the feeder. When starlings trigger this mechanism with their weight, it will cause the feeder to close, preventing them from accessing the food.
  4. Install a cage around the feeder: Create a wire mesh cage that allows smaller birds to enter while keeping starlings out. Make sure the mesh size is small enough to prevent starlings from squeezing through.
  5. Use a dome baffle: Place a dome-shaped baffle above the feeder to deter starlings from accessing it. The smooth, curved surface of the baffle makes it difficult for them to perch or cling onto the feeder.
  6. Apply a taste deterrent: Coat the feeder with a taste deterrent that starlings find unpleasant, such as cayenne pepper or hot sauce. This can discourage them from approaching the feeder.

Remember to consider the size, strength, and adaptability of starlings when modifying bird feeders. By implementing these modifications, you can create a feeder that is less appealing to starlings, allowing smaller bird species to enjoy the food undisturbed.

3. Create Physical Barriers

When attempting to prevent starlings from accessing bird feeders, one can utilize physical barriers as an effective method. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create physical barriers to deter starlings:

  • First, install a cage around the bird feeder that is specifically designed to be resistant to starlings. This cage should have openings that are small enough to prevent starlings from entering, yet large enough for smaller birds to access the food.
  • Next, cover the openings of the bird feeder with sturdy wire mesh or netting. It is important to ensure that the mesh or netting is strong enough to withstand any pressure the starlings may exert while attempting to access the food.
  • Additionally, attach a baffle or cone-shaped guard to either the pole or the top of the bird feeder. This will make it challenging for starlings to land on the feeder and gain access to the food.
  • Furthermore, consider placing the bird feeder in an enclosed area, such as a screened-in porch or a garden that is enclosed by fencing. This will create a physical barrier that prevents starlings from reaching the feeder.
  • Lastly, you can create a domed cover for the bird feeder. Starlings are less likely to land on a feeder that has a cover over it.

By implementing these physical barriers, you can effectively deter starlings from accessing the bird feeder, allowing smaller birds to enjoy the food.

4. Implement Feeding Schedules

To effectively implement feeding schedules and deter starlings from bird feeders, follow these steps:

1. Establish the optimal feeding times: Identify when starlings are least active, such as in the early morning or late afternoon.

2. Fill bird feeders during the optimal feeding times: Avoid leaving feeders filled overnight when starlings are more likely to feed.

3. Temporarily remove bird feeders during peak starling activity: If starlings are causing significant problems, take down the feeders during their most active times, like mid-morning or mid-afternoon.

4. Gradually adjust the feeding times: If starlings persist, gradually shift the feeding schedule earlier or later to avoid overlapping with their peak activity.

5. Control the availability of food: Utilize feeders that dispense small amounts of food at a time, reducing the appeal to starlings.

6. Utilize deterrents when feeders are empty or removed: Use noise or visual deterrents designed to specifically discourage starlings from the feeding area.

7. Continuously monitor and adjust: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the feeding schedule and make necessary modifications based on starling behavior.

By implementing these feeding schedules, you can effectively discourage starlings from accessing bird feeders, allowing other bird species to enjoy the feeders without interference.

5. Use Bird Feeders with Weight-Activated Mechanisms

To deter starlings from accessing bird feeders, the use of bird feeders equipped with weight-activated mechanisms is highly recommended. These feeders are designed to close or block access to the food when a certain weight is applied. As starlings are generally larger and heavier than other bird species, the feeder will automatically close when they land on it, effectively preventing them from reaching the food. This will discourage starlings from visiting the feeder while still allowing smaller birds to have access to the food.

To ensure maximum effectiveness, it is advisable to look for bird feeders that offer adjustable weight settings. This feature will allow you to customize the closure threshold based on the desired size of the birds you wish to attract. By doing so, you can cater to the needs of different bird species.

In addition to using weight-activated mechanisms, strategic placement of the bird feeder is crucial. It is important to position the feeder in an area where starlings would have difficulty perching or landing. Avoid hanging the feeder too close to branches or structures that could enable starlings to access the food without triggering the weight-activated mechanism. To add an extra layer of difficulty for starlings, you may also consider using baffles or cages around the bird feeder.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of the bird feeder are essential to ensure the weight-activated mechanism functions properly. It is recommended to clean the feeder at least once a month using warm soapy water and a brush. This practice will help remove any debris or excess feed that may impair the closure mechanism and also eliminate the bacteria or mold that could potentially accumulate.

By incorporating bird feeders with weight-activated mechanisms into your bird feeding routine, you can effectively discourage starlings from accessing the feeder while still providing a welcoming environment for other bird species to enjoy.

6. Grow Diverse Plants and Trees

To deter starlings from bird feeders, an effective method is to cultivate a varied selection of plants and trees in your yard or garden. This strategy naturally forms a barrier that discourages starlings from approaching the feeders.

  • To create a diverse environment, choose a range of plants and trees with different heights, shapes, and textures.
  • Add shrubs and bushes near the bird feeders to provide additional shelter and hiding spots for smaller birds.
  • Opt for plants that produce berries or fruits, as these can attract bird species that are not preferred by starlings.
  • Incorporate flowering plants that attract insects, as these insects can offer an alternative food source for birds.
  • Cultivate trees with dense foliage that can act as a natural barrier, making it more challenging for starlings to reach the feeders.

Pro-tip: Regularly maintain the plants and trees by pruning and trimming them to ensure their health and provide a beneficial habitat for birds. Consider creating a separate feeding area specifically for starlings, away from the main bird feeders, to divert their attention and minimize competition.

Other Ways to Deter Starlings

Looking to keep those pesky starlings away from your bird feeders? Check out these other clever tactics you can employ. From being mindful about the food you use to creating noise and visual deterrents, we’ve got you covered. You can even use other bird species as “decoys” to effectively keep starlings at bay. Say goodbye to the birdseed snatchers and welcome a more peaceful feeding experience for your beloved feathered friends.

1. Avoid Using Food that Attracts Starlings

When attempting to discourage starlings from bird feeders, one effective approach is to refrain from using food that is appealing to them. Here are some steps that can be taken to achieve this:

1. Reduce or eliminate the use of suet and fatty foods: Starlings are attracted to high-fat foods like suet, so decreasing or eliminating these from your bird feeders can help deter them.

2. Refrain from scatter feeding: Starlings are opportunistic eaters and will congregate around scattered food sources. Instead, utilize feeders that have smaller openings or trays in order to prevent easy access to large amounts of food.

3. Choose foods that starlings dislike: Starlings have specific food preferences, so selecting seeds or food types that they are less likely to be drawn to can help discourage them. For instance, sunflower hearts and nyjer seeds are often avoided by starlings.

4. Experiment with spicy or hot foods: Starlings have a lower tolerance for spicy or hot foods. Adding ingredients such as crushed red pepper or chili flakes to birdseed blends can make them less appealing to starlings.

5. Promptly clean up any spilled food: Starlings are attracted to areas where there is an abundance of food. Regularly tidy up any spilled food around your bird feeders to discourage them from frequenting the area.

By following these steps, the attraction of starlings to bird feeders can be minimized, allowing other bird species to enjoy the food without interference.

In the early 1900s, starlings were introduced to North America with the aim of introducing all bird species mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare. However, the starling population rapidly multiplied, resulting in significant ecological damage and the displacement of native bird species. Today, measures are being taken to manage starling populations and lessen their impact on ecosystems.

2. Use Noise and Visual Deterrents

Using noise and visual deterrents can be an effective strategy for keeping starlings away from bird feeders. Here are some recommended methods to implement:

1. Incorporate wind chimes or bells near the bird feeder. The noise produced by these deterrents can frighten starlings and discourage them from approaching the feeders.

2. Hang reflective objects like CDs or strips of tin foil around the bird feeder. The movement and reflections generated by these items can startle the starlings, making them uncomfortable and preventing them from accessing the food.

3. Utilize scarecrows or decoy predators, such as owls or hawks, in close proximity to the bird feeders. The presence of these visual deterrents can intimidate starlings and create caution in approaching the area.

4. Set up bird scare balloons or streamers that sway with the wind. The movement and vibrant colors generated by these items can create a visual disturbance that starlings find unattractive, discouraging them from visiting the feeders.

5. Install bird feeder poles equipped with spinners or rotators. These devices produce movement and noise whenever a starling lands on the feeder, effectively scaring them away.

Remember, it is crucial to regularly alter the position and appearance of the noise and visual deterrents to prevent starlings from becoming accustomed to them. By employing these methods, you can successfully keep starlings away from your bird feeders and allow other bird species to enjoy the food undisturbed.

3. Employ Other Bird Species as “Decoys”

To deter starlings from bird feeders, one effective method is to employ other bird species as “decoys”. By introducing a diverse range of bird species to the feeder area, you can create an environment that starlings are less likely to dominate.

  1. Attract native bird species: Make the feeder area appealing to native bird species that are not attractive to starlings. Different bird species have varying feeding preferences and behaviors, so attracting a diverse range of birds can discourage starlings from taking over.
  2. Provide birdhouses: Install birdhouses suitable for other bird species near the bird feeders. These birdhouses should be specifically designed for the targeted bird species and placed strategically to create a distraction for starlings, keeping them away from the feeders.
  3. Offer alternative food sources: Set up additional feeding stations with food that starlings don’t prefer. Fill these stations with seeds, berries, or fruits that are favored by other bird species. This will attract a variety of birds, drawing their attention away from the main feeder.
  4. Plant bird-friendly vegetation: Cultivate plants that produce fruits or berries that are enjoyed by native bird species but are not as appealing to starlings. This will enhance the attractiveness of your garden to other birds and reduce starling activity at the feeders.

Some Facts About How To Keep Starlings Off Bird Feeders:

  • ✅ Starlings are aggressive birds that often scare away other species from feeders. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ Starlings travel in large flocks, taking over feeding stations and preventing other species from accessing food. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ Starlings are an invasive species in North America, introduced in 1890 and out-competing native birds. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ Choosing foods that starlings don’t enjoy eating can help prevent them from dominating bird feeders. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ Using starling-proof or resistant feeders, such as upside-down suet feeders or cage suet feeders, can help deter starlings from accessing food.  (Source: Our Team)

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep starlings off my bird feeders?

To keep starlings off your bird feeders, you can use a variety of strategies:

  • Choose bird foods that starlings don’t enjoy, such as thick-shelled seeds like safflower or nyjer.
  • Use starling-proof or resistant suet feeders, upside-down suet feeders, or cage suet feeders to prevent starlings from accessing suet.
  • Switch to larger, thick-shelled seeds in your seed feeders to make them more difficult for starlings to eat.
  • Use tube feeders with small perches or mesh feeders to prevent starlings from dominating seed feeders.
  • Consider using mealworm feeders with small access holes to limit starlings’ access to mealworms.
  • Accept and manage the presence of starlings as they often travel in mixed “blackbird” flocks.

What kind of bird feeders should I use to keep starlings away?

To deter starlings, you can use starling-proof or resistant suet feeders, upside-down suet feeders, and cage suet feeders. These feeders are designed to prevent starlings from accessing suet. Additionally, using tube feeders with small perches or mesh feeders can help prevent starlings from dominating seed feeders. Consider using mealworm feeders with small access holes to limit starlings’ access to mealworms.

What types of bird foods should I avoid using to keep starlings away?

To discourage starlings, you should avoid using foods that they find irresistible, such as cracked corn, sunflower kernels/chips, suet with corn or peanuts, shelled peanuts, millet, mealworms, and bread or other human food. Starlings have long, pointy, and soft beaks that are perfectly suited for consuming these foods. Instead, choose foods that starlings don’t enjoy, such as thick-shelled seeds like safflower or nyjer.

What are some strategies to prevent starlings from dominating bird feeders?

To prevent starlings from dominating bird feeders, you can try the following strategies:

  • Using starling-proof or resistant suet feeders, upside-down suet feeders, and cage suet feeders.
  • Switching to larger, thick-shelled seeds in your seed feeders.
  • Using tube feeders with small perches or mesh feeders.
  • Using mealworm feeders with small access holes.
  • Accepting the presence of starlings as they often travel in mixed “blackbird” flocks.
  • Managing expectations and understanding starlings’ behavior.

What other birds might benefit from using starling-proof feeders?

By using starling-proof feeders or employing strategies to deter starlings, you can provide a more bird-friendly environment for small songbirds like finches, chickadees, nuthatches, cardinals, and grosbeaks. These species often face competition and intimidation from starlings at bird feeders.

Are there any temporary solutions to keep starlings away from my bird feeders?

If you are looking for temporary solutions to keep starlings away from your bird feeders, you can try using makeshift deterrence methods like hanging suet feeders under a domed squirrel baffle or setting up a garbage can under a hanging feeder to prevent other birds’ dropped food from being eaten by starlings. However, it is recommended to implement more permanent strategies, such as using starling-proof or resistant suet feeders and choosing bird foods that starlings don’t enjoy, for long-term success.

Julian Goldie - Owner of ChiperBirds.com

Julian Goldie

I'm a bird enthusiast and creator of Chipper Birds, a blog sharing my experience caring for birds. I've traveled the world bird watching and I'm committed to helping others with bird care. Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.