European Starlings in Georgia
Health RiskMedium
Damage RiskMedium
NuisanceHigh
How to Identify European Starlings
European starlings are highly social birds that travel in large, noisy flocks and are recognized by their dark, glossy feathers with speckled markings and short, pointed bills.
- Actual Size Typically 7 to 9 inches long with a wingspan of around 12 to 17 inches
- Characteristics Highly social birds that gather in large, coordinated flocks and are often seen moving together in dense aerial patterns.
- Coloration Shiny black feathers with metallic green and purple highlights and light spotting across the body.
What Do European Starlings Do?
European starlings eat a wide range of foods such as insects, seeds, and fruit. They tend to congregate in large flocks in parks, fields, and urban environments, where their droppings can contribute to sanitation concerns.
- Cavity nesters and will build nests in holes in trees, buildings, vents, and other sheltered structures.
- These birds are highly adaptable and can live in cities, farms, grasslands, and suburban neighborhoods.
- Large flocks of starlings can create sanitation concerns due to heavy droppings, especially in roosting areas like parks and rooftops.
- Considered an invasive species in North America, where they can compete with native birds for nesting sites and food resources.
Where Do You Find European Starlings?
European starlings are commonly found in areas with open ground and nearby structures for nesting, particularly in both rural and urban environments during peak seasonal activity. Common places you’ll find European starlings include:
- City parks
- Agricultural fields
- Suburban neighborhoods
- Parking lots and shopping centers
- Building rooftops and ledges
- Bridges and overpasses
- Farm barns and silos
- School campuses and sports fields
What Should I Do If I Have European Starlings in Georgia?
Because European starlings travel in large flocks between cities, fields, and buildings, they can create significant waste accumulation that leads to cleanliness and property maintenance concerns. When European starlings become a problem, the following steps are recommended:
- Remove food sources such as spilled grain, pet food, and unsecured trash to discourage European starlings from gathering in the area.
- Install deterrents like bird spikes, netting, or angled surfaces to prevent roosting on buildings and ledges.
- Seal openings in vents, soffits, and structures to block access to common nesting sites.
- Clean up droppings promptly to reduce sanitation issues and discourage repeat roosting.
- Trim trees and manage landscaping to reduce sheltered areas where starlings may gather.
- Contact a professional wildlife or bird control service for safe, humane management of persistent starling infestations.
Top 5 FAQs About European Starlings in Georgia
If you have questions about European starlings and effective ways to handle them, review our most frequently asked questions below. If you still need assistance, contact us by phone or email.
What do European starlings eat?
They eat insects, fruits, seeds, and grains, making them highly adaptable to different environments.
Why are European starlings considered a nuisance?
Large flocks can create heavy droppings, noise, and sanitation issues, especially when they roost in urban areas.
Do European starlings nest in buildings?
Yes, they often nest in cavities such as vents, soffits, rooflines, and other sheltered openings in structures.
Can European starlings cause property damage?
Yes, their nesting habits and droppings can damage buildings, clog vents, and create cleanup and maintenance issues.
When should you seek professional help for European starlings?
Professional bird control is recommended when large flocks are persistent, roosting in structures, or causing ongoing sanitation issues.
