The Virginia Department of Transportation is abandoning poison in its ongoing battle to rid the Benjamin Harrison Bridge of a large flock of birds.

An estimated 3,000 to 5,000 European starlings have made their home around the bridge that spans the James River. VDOT officials say the birds' droppings have damaged the bridge and can carry a lung disease called histoplasmosis.

VDOT spokeswoman Taya Jarman said poisoned bait laid out in February killed some starlings, but the birds are still a problem.

Jarman says VDOT won't use poison in the future. The agency is studying nonlethal alternatives, such as bird netting or other devices that could prevent the birds from roosting.

-- Associated Press