USDA taking action to reduce starling population in Hall County

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — After people in the Grand Island area expressed concerns about noise and filth, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is taking action to reduce the starling population.

The USDA treated the local starling population on Tuesday using DRC – 1339.

They said the chemical used is bird specific, and harm to any other animal other than the target species is not anticipated. The targeted birds will die off 24 to 36 hours after consuming the treated feed and will often be found at the bird’s roosting locations.

The USDA said use of the chemical is only effective during the fall and winter months when large flocks consistently feed in one location. During the spring and summer months, they said the birds are less likely to congregate in large numbers as the birds feed in local fields and on grain and insects, making treatment applications nearly impossible.

Officials said if residents find dead starlings on their private property, it is OK to dispose of the birds in trash containers. The USDA recommends using gloves or a bag when picking the starlings up. People who are physically unable to dispose of the birds can call City Hall at 308-385-5455 to make arrangements for cleanup. The City of Grand Island said they will only offer the service if a resident is incapable of the collection and disposal of the birds.

Officials said their biggest concern is the health nuisance caused from the droppings of the birds. Starlings can spread Salmonella, E. coli, perpetuate a fungus soil known as Histoplasmosis, as well as West Nile.

The city started addressing this problem with treatments in 2005. This is the only successful known treatment option for this nuisance.