An understanding of bird behavior is needed in order to approach solving bird damage problems. Behavior of blackbirds (including starlings, grackles, and cowbirds) is discussed in detail in relationship to roosting, movement, food habits, and the seasonal changes involved in these behaviors. Responses to frightening stimuli, particularly biosonics such as alarm calls, are discussed.

The use of alarm stimuli as a means of bird damage control is discussed. Effectiveness is dependent upon a number of factors, including environment, bird vulnerability to attack, time-of-day, physiological requirements, and the bird species’ social structure. Some species of birds respond well to alarm sounds, while others do not. Further experiments on the utility of alarm stimuli as a damage management tool must be conducted at various times and under diverse conditions to arrive at definite conclusions.