Test Method for Evaluating the Effects of Chemicals on Starling Reproduction

A test method is proposed whereby effects of chemicals on reproduction of starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are monitored in outdoor pen facilities throughout a breeding season. The method involves the use of replications of ten pairs of breeding starlings held in 3 by 3 by 7-m enclosures constructed of plywood and 1.27-cm (0.5-in.) mesh chicken wire. Each enclosure is equipped with ten modified nest box traps that allow observations of nest building, egg laying, incubation, and nestling production. Although initial studies were limited to determining egg fertility after 5 to 7 days of natural incubation, production of starling nestlings or fledglings also should be easy to monitor with only minor modifications in the test method.