Starlings roosting in trees can cause some breakage of branchlets and leaders of small trees due to the combined weights of many birds, but this is generally negligible. The chemical effects of droppings on trees are more serious issues. Accumulations of droppings may exceed 300 mm in depth under the roosts and can be phytotoxic, killing the tree via the root system. Direct scorching of needles and twigs may be a contributory factor. This Leaflet discusses ways to disperse starlings to reduce the effects of these problems. The Leaflet covers: methods of preventing damage, roost dispersal equipment, planning and timing operations, method of dispersal, supply of equipment and operation and maintenance.