Famous starlings evicted - Nature - Environment - The Independent Trees and shrubs where about 1,000 starlings roost, attracting international attention with their swooping displays at sunset, have been cut back because of health and safety fears. North Devon Council was denounced as "ludicrous" by residents after cutting back the foliage in Barnstaple last week. The council said the droppings could cause salmonella and toxoplasmosis. Mike Jones, principal parks officer, said: "As well as the health risks, we had received complaints from businesses and residents about the mess."