There are a number of pests that homes and businesses must combat. One of the most difficult pests to keep away are birds. Birds own the sky and claim any surface suitable to land or roost on. One of the major bird problems besides pigeons is grackles. Grackles travel in large groups which can quickly lead to a lot of damage. A-Tex Pest Management will share more about grackles and some bird control tips.
Common Grackle Identification
Texas is home to the Common Grackle, which is a larger species of bird. These birds are black in color with pale cream or yellow eyes. They have a long black bill that is actually quite sharp. You’ll also see a long tail. The primary coloring in a grackle is black. You’ll notice that it shines, and it covers their entire body. The light can reflect a metallic purple coloring in the black feathers on their head, their neck, and down their chest. Females are less colorful than males and have duller black feathers.
Black Grackle Bird Damage & Diseases
The personality or behavior of the grackles can make them a bit of a nuisance. For example, they are very loud. They are both social and aggressive. They often colonize in large groups when roosting or nesting. Since this is the case, they will leave behind major quantities of fecal matter that contains uric acid. This can erode and damage roof tiles and other structural materials. Grackles are foragers. They can heavily damage corn crops and wheat fields, so they have a terrible impact on agriculture. Grackles will also rummage through uncovered garbage and will destroy gardens. Some other concerns that grackles pose is that they are carriers of a certain fungus that can cause Histoplasmosis. This is a respiratory disease that can be fatal to humans.
How to Get Rid of Grackles
Due to the large groups, damage, and health problems grackles can cause, many businesses and homes need help with bird control. There are a number of bird control products and techniques used for grackle and pigeon control. To begin with there are liquid repellents that can be sprayed around the yard and home that emits odor grackles and other birds don’t like. This odor will naturally deter them. Other repellents such as electrical sounds, plus devices that activate when motion is detected are also used. Visual deterrents such as hawk decoys can work as well. However, these birds can grow accustomed to the decoys, and later on, they may not be as effective. There are the standard bird spikes that can be installed on edges, ridges, and the eaves of roofs. Similar to bird spikes are the new shock tape that is beginning to be used for bird control. For inside eaves, coves, or inside parking structures, bird netting can be installed to keep grackles from nesting on these otherwise easily accessed structures. One of the biggest challenges when it comes to controlling grackles is their intelligence. Grackles are a problem-solving species and will figure out ways around control methods. This is why it helps to use a professional pest control service.
Grackle Bird Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park, Texas
A-Tex Pest Management can help control pests and wildlife, including grackles. If you’re having problems with grackles or other pests, contact A-Tex Pest Management today!