Birds:  Facts, Identification & Control

Bird-related problems can lead to lost business, contaminated products and expensive damage to building exteriors. Some bird species harbor diseases that can be transmitted to humans and are classified as public health threats. Bird droppings are also problematic, as bird waste can ruin building finishes and create unsanitary conditions. The droppings can also be expensive to clean up. If birds become a problem, contact your pest management professional and ask him or her to develop a bird control program specifically tailored for your home or business.

Bird Control
Habitat modification usually is the best long-term solution to bird control. Reducing food availability and access to protective shelter for roosting and nesting are the fundamental objectives of any bird control program. Bird control efforts begin with a comprehensive inspection by your pest management professional and, based on the inspection findings, he or she will identify the species of bird(s) and choose the most effective exclusion methods.

Some common methods of bird exclusion include installing exclusion devices on surfaces used by birds for roosting and loafing, plus using bird screening to prevent access to bird roosting and nesting sites. Your pest management professional will employ techniques and products that are humane, efficient and effective to the target birds.

Why Bird Control Is Important
Population control becomes more difficult the longer unwanted roosting and nesting goes untreated. Therefore, don’t hesitate to deal with pest birds and be proactive when considering your needs for habitat modification. Some reasons for bird control include:

Bird droppings and nesting material can lead to the spread of a number of diseases and the proliferation of ectoparasites like bed bugs, chicken mites, and yellow mealworms.

  • Bird droppings can stain, corrode or otherwise damage building materials.
  • Bird droppings on sidewalks can create a safety hazard resulting in the risk of slips and falls.
  • Bird nests may create a fire hazard if located near lights or electrical equipment.
  • Birds that nest inside or around food production and warehouse facilities may contaminate equipment and products.
  • Bird nests can clog drains, thus interfering with water drainage.
  • Noise caused by a large bird population, birds roosting in trees and birds getting inside a chimney, above drop ceilings and in vents and flues.

Common Problem Birds:
European Starlings

House (English) Sparrows

Pigeons (Rock Doves)