Foolproof ways to stop sparrows and starlings from nesting under your eaves.
Starlings nesting in roof space.
Be proactive and seal any cavities and gaps where starlings have nested before as they do have a tendency to return to nesting sites.
Although they are noisy they seldom cause any damage and their nesting period is fairly short.
Where natural tree hollows for their cavity nests are lacking starlings nest in attics and other building spaces gaining access via vents for dryers stoves and bathrooms or via deteriorated or damaged building materials.
If you find they ve built a nest but haven t laid any eggs remove the nest and immediately fill the gap.
A starling in the attic is usually the result of uncovered vents or openings in the exterior of a home.
Stop before the nest completes.
In most states it s legal to destroy the nest of any bird as long as it s not fully established.
In urban areas nests occupy building eaves window ledges and almost any other place between 6 and 60 feet off the ground.
If so treat this nest like a nest in an attic or similar cavity.
What does a starling nest look like.
Breeding usually starts in mid april so it is possible that they are only roosting in the roofspace in the evenings and leaving the following morning to feed.
You may have to wait about 12 days for eggs to hatch and up to 3 weeks for young to leave the nest.
The beak of the european starling is dark brown in winter but turns yellow during breeding season.
Starlings prefer to roost in tree cavities or small crevices but will choose an attic if these natural habitats are not available.
European starlings were introduced to north america purposely and have adapted to a wide range of habitat conditions including city office buildings warehouses and bridges.
If there is a nest present the starling in the attic is most likely male.
Starlings often nest within tree hollows and even cracks in utility poles.
At this time of year starlings will be investigating any crevices and holes in buildings for a suitable place to breed.
Hello we ve just discovered that starlings have gotten in to our roof to start building a nest.
Check the nest frequently once the young leave the nest remove the nesting material and seal the openings.
If you can see a gap you think they may take a shine to seal it before they start nest building.
Starling nests are a loosely woven mass of bark grass twigs and trash.
Hide the nest material.
If you find eggs or young birds in attics or similar cavities leave them be.
Starlings love nothing more than a cosy space in a roof or loft for their nests.
