RTV Maastricht – Laser used to control starling nuisance

Several residents of Sint Maartensport have reported disturbance caused by a group of starlings.

Residents' sleep suffers from the enormous noise made by the animals. The large amount of bird droppings that end up in people's gardens also causes an odor nuisance. The municipality of Maastricht now offers residents a solution to repel animals: lasers.

It shines
Residents have to beam a laser from their garden every day. According to the municipality, this is an animal-friendly and effective way to repel these birds. A quick Google search shows that starlings mistake laser flashes for a stick used to strike them. By shining a laser at the birds every day, the flock can be driven away.

Health problems
GGD Zuid-Limburg recently conducted a study to determine the health risks for residents. This shows that long-term noise pollution can cause a lot of inconvenience, sleep disturbance, disruption of daily activities and stress. Disturbing odor can also cause health problems. The droppings expelled by birds expose residents to the risk of infectious diseases, such as chlamydia psittaci (also called parrot disease) and salmonella. Residents are advised to wear gloves while removing feces.

Written questions
CDA faction leader Gabrielle Heynen asked the Maastricht municipal council several questions about the issue. For example, you are concerned about health risks and wonder whether the use of lasers on public roads is permitted. She also wants to know from the council whether this form of chasing “problems” is not just driven by her.