City of Grand Island to Treat Starling Population

Grand Island, Neb. — For the 21st-consecutive year, the City of Grand Island will proactively treat and reduce the local starling population.

In collaboration with Earlybird Pest Control, the city will be using Avitrol, with the treatment being applied during the week of February 9.

The chemical used is bird-specific and is not expected to harm any other animal aside from the targeted species. After consuming the treated feed, affected birds typically expire within 15 minutes to an hour and are often found near roosting locations.

This treatment method is only effective during the fall and winter months when large flocks consistently feed in concentrated areas. During the spring and summer months, starlings are less likely to congregate in large numbers as they feed in fields and on grain and insects, making treatment applications impractical.

Residents who encounter deceased starlings may dispose of them in secure trash containers. It’s also recommended residents use gloves or a bag when handling the birds. Each year, the city receives ongoing concerns from residents regarding noise and sanitation issues caused by excessive starling populations. Of particular concern are health risks associated with bird droppings. Starlings can spread diseases such as salmonella, West Nile Virus and E. coli and contribute to the presence of Histoplasmosis, a soil-based fungal infection.

This treatment remains the only proven and effective option to address this longstanding nuisance and associated public health concerns. For more information, please reach out to Communications Manager Spencer Schubert at [email protected].