Catch Starlings with a Homemade Trap: Watch the Amazing Starling Catcher in Action!
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- What is a Starling Trap?
- How does a Starling Trap work?
3.1. Design and Structure
3.2. False Floor Mechanism
3.3. Trap Cage
3.4. Relocating the Trapped Birds
- Benefits of Using a Starling Trap
4.1. Protecting Open Buildings and Equipment
4.2. Preventing Damage to Property
4.3. Maintaining a Balanced Ecosystem
- Building a Starling Trap
5.1. Required Materials
5.2. Step-by-Step Instructions
5.3. Tips for Effective Trap Placement
- Other Uses for Starling Traps
6.1. Keeping Starlings Away from Purple Martin Boxes
6.2. Farm and Birdhouse Applications
6.3. Cost and Time Considerations
- Conclusion
- Resources
What is a Starling Trap?
Birds are an integral part of our natural ecosystem, but sometimes certain species, such as starlings, can become problematic when they invade open buildings or equipment. That's where a starling trap comes in. A starling trap is a specially designed birdhouse that functions as a trap to catch starlings and prevent them from entering areas where they are unwelcome.
How does a Starling Trap work?
Design and Structure
At first glance, a starling trap appears to be just like any other birdhouse. It is typically built with a ledge for birds to land on and looks inconspicuous from the outside. However, the real magic happens on the inside.
False Floor Mechanism
Inside the starling trap, there is a false floor that is weighted with fish weights. When starlings fly into the trap, they knock down the false floor and fall to the bottom. Once they are at the bottom, they are unable to fly back up and escape, thanks to the blockage at the top of the trap.
Trap Cage
The trapped starlings are then directed into a PVC tube that leads to a cage, ensuring they cannot fly out of the trap. The cage allows light to filter in from the top, attracting birds to fly out of a small hole and into the tube. Once they enter the tube, they become trapped in the cage.
Relocating the Trapped Birds
Once the birds are caught in the trap, it is important to relocate them as soon as possible. The trap usually has a removable floor that allows for easy access to the trapped birds. After deciding what to do with the birds, the floor can be taken off, the birds can be released, and then the floor can be reattached to secure the trap.
Benefits of Using a Starling Trap
Protecting Open Buildings and Equipment
One of the primary benefits of using a starling trap is to keep starlings out of open buildings and away from valuable equipment. Starlings can cause extensive damage to property, especially in the spring when they are actively nesting. By using a starling trap, you can effectively prevent starlings from entering these areas and causing havoc.
Preventing Damage to Property
Starlings are known for their habit of nesting in inconvenient places, such as chimneys, vents, or rafters. This can lead to blockages, damage, and the spread of diseases. By using a starling trap, you can mitigate the risk of property damage and keep your buildings and equipment free from any potential harm caused by these birds.
Maintaining a Balanced Ecosystem
While it may seem harsh to trap birds, it is important to remember that starlings are an invasive species in many regions. They compete for resources with native bird species, leading to a disruption in the natural balance of the ecosystem. Using a starling trap can help control their population and create a more harmonious environment for native birds.
Building a Starling Trap
Required Materials
To build a starling trap, you will need the following materials:
- Birdhouse design of your choice
- Fish weights
- PVC tube
- Cage material (e.g., wire mesh)
- Zip ties and screws
- Removable floor components
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Choose a birdhouse design suitable for trapping starlings.
- Install a false floor inside the birdhouse, making sure it is weighted with fish weights.
- Attach a PVC tube to the back of the birdhouse to lead birds to the trap cage.
- Construct a trap cage using wire mesh, ensuring it has a small hole for birds to fly out of and into the PVC tube.
- Secure the trap cage by using zip ties or screws to attach it to the birdhouse.
- Add a removable floor to the bottom of the trap for easy access to trapped birds.
Tips for Effective Trap Placement
- Place the starling trap in areas where starlings are known to frequent, such as near open buildings or birdhouses.
- Make sure the trap is positioned in a way that birds can easily spot the light filtering in from the top.
- Consider placing multiple traps in strategic locations to maximize the effectiveness of trapping starlings.
Other Uses for Starling Traps
Keeping Starlings Away from Purple Martin Boxes
Originally designed to keep starlings away from purple martin boxes, starling traps have proven effective in preventing these invasive birds from destroying the habitats of native bird species. By using a starling trap in conjunction with purple martin boxes, you can attract and protect these beloved birds while deterring starlings from taking over.
Farm and Birdhouse Applications
Starling traps are not limited to just one specific application. They can be used on farms or in areas where there are multiple birdhouses to protect against starling invasions. Investing the time and money into building starling traps can provide long-term benefits in terms of protecting your property and preserving a balanced ecosystem.
Cost and Time Considerations
Building a starling trap requires an investment of approximately 50 to 60 dollars in materials and a few hours of your time. Considering the benefits they offer in terms of protecting your property and maintaining a balanced ecosystem, the cost and effort involved in building a starling trap are well worth it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, starling traps are an effective tool for keeping starlings away from open buildings, equipment, and nesting spaces. They provide a humane way to control the population of these invasive birds and maintain a harmonious ecosystem. By investing time and resources into building starling traps, you can protect your property and contribute to the well-being of native bird species.
Resources
FAQ
Q: How often should I check the starling trap?
A: It is recommended to check the trap every other day to ensure that trapped birds are promptly relocated.
Q: Are starling traps harmful to birds?
A: Starling traps are designed to catch starlings without causing harm to the birds. Once trapped, it is essential to release them responsibly.
Q: Can starling traps be used for other bird species?
A: While starling traps are primarily designed for starlings, they may inadvertently catch other small birds. It is important to release non-target species unharmed.
Q: Will a starling trap solve all my bird control issues?
A: While starling traps are effective against starlings, they may not address all bird control concerns. Consulting with a bird control specialist can provide tailored solutions for specific situations.
