Public Relations and Successful Blackbird Roost Management

The public relations aspects of a successful blackbird roost management program for an urban area are described. Appendices include sample field note format, selected bird control references, a method for preserving birds, bird control materials, and a sample citation form

SETTING UP AN EFFECTIVE URBAN BLACKBIRD ROOST CONTROL PROGRAM

The City of Denton is situated 35 miles north of north-central Texas. This area is within one of the major N-S corridors for migratory birds. It is also far enough south so that winters are generally mild and open. The average rainfall of 30 inches sustains good stands of pecan and several species of oak, which serve as excellent roost sites for blackbirds. For the past several years, summering flocks of blackbirds have chosen Denton as a roosting site. Interviews with oldtimers here indicate that flocks of birds have always been around. It is only in recent years that their numbers seem much greater and the resulting mess deeper. They also say that in the old days if flocks appeared and started creating a problem, they were simply shot with little fuss resulting. This method is not generally acceptable today

URBAN BLACKBIRD ROOST SURVEY—1981

A brief description is given of 29 areas in the United States and Canada experiencing problems with blackbirds and/or starlings. The answers to an Urban Blackbird Roost Survey of these areas are tabulated and discussed. Suggestions for future urban roost management are presented

Urban blackbird roost survey - 1981

A brief description is given of 29 areas in the United States and Canada experiencing problems with blackbirds and/or starlings. The answers to an Urban Blackbird Roost Survey of these areas are tabulated and discussed. Suggestions for future urban roost management are presented