house Sparrow and starling control

"Management of House Sparrows and European Starlings

BACKGROUND:

Invasive exotic species are species that are introduced and thrive in their new environment, leading to a significant increase in their population range over time. Invasive species are currently one of the main threats to global biodiversity. House Sparrows and European Starlings were both introduced to North America in the 19th century and are now permanent residents found across the United States and Canada, usually near areas of human habitation, disturbance, or areas with a reliable food source. Both species outcompete native cavity-nesting birds and are known to destroy nests and eggs, and kill nestlings and adults while taking over an occupied nest site.

DETERRING HOUSE SPARROWS AND EUROPEAN STARLINGS:

As a nest box monitor, the goal is to provide a safe environment for local cavity-nesting species to breed. To achieve this, it is strongly advised not to allow House Sparrows or European Starlings to breed in nest boxes. Measures should be taken to prevent these species from breeding in the boxes. Although there are several nest box styles that seem to deter House Sparrows for a while, ultimately, if these birds are desperate, they will use the box. European Starlings are less of a problem when it comes to competition with bluebirds and other smaller cavity-nesting species as they are larger birds. By restricting the size of the entrance hole of a nest box, smaller birds can gain access while keeping Starlings out. However, if the target species are larger cavity-nesting birds, like American Kestrels, Great Crested Flycatchers, Flickers, or Screech Owls, it may be necessary to actively deter Starlings from the area.

PASSIVE CONTROL:

There are some methods for preventing exotic species from breeding in nest boxes passively:

Placement: The most successful method is to place nest boxes in areas that do not have these birds. House Sparrows and Starlings prefer to be near human habitations, and Starlings also frequently inhabit agricultural areas with abundant grain. Therefore, placing nest boxes in natural areas away from densely-populated locations will prevent many non-target birds from ever finding them.

Avoid Feeding: Another way to reduce the number of House Sparrows and European Starlings around the property is to avoid feeding them. House Sparrows prefer smaller seeds like millet, cracked corn, and milo, which are plentiful in inexpensive bird seed mixes. European Starlings like premium black-oil sunflower seeds. If you do feed wild birds, offer foods that these species do not appreciate, such as safflower for Northern Cardinals, nyjer or "thistle" seeds for finches, and nectar for hummingbirds. Avoid putting out mealworms and suet, and scattering seed on the ground. Feeders with short perches and small ports are also less attractive to these two species.

Exclusion: An entrance hole of 1 1/2" or smaller will exclude Starlings from boxes intended for smaller birds. House Sparrows can fit through entrance holes as small as 1 1/4"; therefore, most cavity-nesting songbirds using nest boxes are vulnerable to House Sparrow competition. PVC nest boxes are often avoided by House Sparrows; however, there is no scientifically-documented way to exclude House Sparrows that works permanently. Alternatively, only offer boxes that are not as vulnerable to exotics, such as chickadee boxes, Chimney Swift Towers, or nesting platforms.

Timing: House Sparrows and European Starlings do not migrate, so they have a competitive advantage when it comes to having first pick of suitable nest boxes. By waiting to open nest boxes until migratory birds return, it ensures that they have a better chance of finding an unoccupied box.

In situations where populations of non-native species have become invasive, trapping may be the most effective method of control. However, it is important to handle trapped birds with care and ensure that only the target species are captured. If a bird is caught, it is best to euthanize it humanely as soon as possible to minimize its stress and prevent further harm to other wildlife.

When using sparrow traps, it is crucial to monitor them frequently, ideally hourly, to prevent native bird species from becoming ensnared. Trappers must also have the necessary skills to identify House Sparrows accurately. Several humane trapping methods can be employed, including the In-box Trap, Funnel Trap, Trio Trap, and Repeating (Elevator) Trap.

Although no wildlife manager relishes the idea of euthanizing pest species, finding injured or dead birds due to preventable attacks can be distressing. Some raptor rehabilitation centers may accept sparrows that have been humanely euthanized without the use of harmful chemicals. To learn more about House Sparrow control, the North American Bluebird Society offers additional information and may have affiliate members in your state or province who can advise you on effective deterrents specific to your area. It is also essential to comply with state regulations regarding wildlife relocation and to locate local organizations that accept harvested sparrows and/or starlings.

It is important to note that controlling non-native bird species is a complex issue, and trapping should only be used as part of an integrated approach to population management. This may include habitat modification, predator control, and the use of deterrents such as netting, visual scare devices, or audio repellents. By combining multiple strategies, it may be possible to reduce the impact of non-native bird species on native wildlife populations and the environment.