Starlings are protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 as they are in decline, which means they cannot be disturbed without applying for a special licence, while nesting. At home ourselves last year we found Starlings nesting in our fascia’s, so I know what it’s like first-hand to live with them, to the point where we had to move into the back bedroom to get away from the constant squawking.
In the wild, Starlings will nest in holes and cavities, especially in trees, but will often use the gaps in fascia’s and soffits of homes and this is when they become a problem, so what can be done?
Through trial and error, during my time with the Starling’s we came up with a solution that has continued to keep them out. Once the last of the fledglings had flown the nest, we installed a brush into the gutters around the house & closed any gaps around the roof verge and tiles.
The key is to close as many gaps as you can find as it is likely the adult breeding birds will return.
We have also added a bird box to the garden replacing their home – all done to help them and re-home them