Controlling Birds

Birds can be both a delightful presence and a significant nuisance around your home. While they contribute to the natural beauty of your surroundings, some birds can cause damage, create messes, and pose health risks if they nest in unwanted areas like attics, chimneys, or Eaves.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to identifying problematic bird behavior, implementing humane control methods, and preventing future infestations.

Why Bird Control is Important

Managing bird populations around your home is crucial for several reasons:

Prevents Structural Damage: Birds can damage roofing, Siding, and Ventilation systems by building nests, which can also block gutters and downspouts.
Reduces Health Risks: Bird droppings can harbor diseases like histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and salmonella, posing risks to human health.
Minimizes Mess and Noise: Nesting birds can create noise disturbances, while droppings and nesting debris can make walkways, patios, and outdoor spaces unsanitary.
Supports Insurance Compliance: Proper bird control and maintenance can impact home insurance, as bird-related damage may not be covered if it results from neglect.

Identifying Problematic Birds

While not all birds cause problems, certain species are more likely to create issues for homeowners. The most common nuisance birds and their behaviors include:

Pigeons

Behavior: Pigeons are attracted to ledges, roofs, and attics where they nest and roost.
Signs of Activity:
- Large numbers of droppings on roofs, sidewalks, and other surfaces.
- Nests made of twigs, leaves, and feathers in hidden areas like eaves or rafters.
- Persistent cooing sounds.

Sparrows

Behavior: Sparrows are small birds that often build nests in small cavities like vents, gutters, and siding gaps.
Signs of Activity:
- Small nests made of grass, feathers, and debris in building crevices.
- Loud chirping, especially during nesting season.
- Feathers and nesting materials near vents or exhaust outlets.

Starlings

Behavior: Starlings often nest in large groups, causing significant noise and mess. They prefer attics, chimneys, and eaves.
Signs of Activity:
- Large flocks seen around roofs or chimneys.
- Nests in attics, gutters, and other enclosed areas.
- High-pitched whistles and chatter.

Swallows

Behavior: Swallows build mud nests on vertical surfaces like walls and under eaves, often returning to the same site each year.
Signs of Activity:
- Mud nests attached to walls, typically under eaves or overhangs.
- Repeated swooping behavior near nesting sites.
- Droppings and mud residue on siding or walls.

Woodpeckers

Behavior: Woodpeckers peck at wooden siding, trim, and trees, causing damage and making loud tapping sounds.
Signs of Activity:
- Small holes in Wood Siding, Fascia, or trim.
- Loud drumming or pecking sounds, especially in the morning.
- Damaged trees or wooden structures.

Preventing Bird Infestations

Preventing birds from nesting or roosting on your property requires proactive measures. Here are several humane methods to discourage birds:

1. Install Bird Spikes

Bird spikes are effective for preventing larger birds, like pigeons and starlings, from perching on flat surfaces:

Use on Ledges & Beams: Install bird spikes along ledges, rooflines, and beams where birds typically roost.
Ensure Proper Installation: Secure the spikes with screws or adhesive to ensure they stay in place and don’t harm birds.

2. Use Bird Netting

Bird netting is effective for keeping birds away from larger areas like gardens, vents, and under eaves:

Install Under Eaves: Hang bird netting under eaves to prevent birds from accessing nesting sites.
Cover Gardens & Fruit Trees: Use netting to protect gardens, fruit trees, and crops from bird damage.

3. Seal Entry Points

Sealing potential nesting sites around your home can prevent birds from getting inside:

Inspect Vents & Chimneys: Cover vents and chimneys with mesh screens or caps to block access without affecting airflow.
Fill Gaps in Siding: Seal gaps in siding, soffits, and fascia to prevent sparrows and starlings from nesting inside walls or attics.

4. Use Reflective Deterrents

Reflective objects can deter birds by creating a disorienting glare:

Hang Reflective Tape: Hang reflective tape, aluminum foil strips, or CDs near nesting areas, eaves, or gardens to discourage birds.
Install Reflective Bird Scarers: Use reflective bird scarers that move in the wind, creating flashes of light that birds find unappealing.

5. Apply Bird Repellents

Bird repellents can be used to make surfaces less appealing for roosting or nesting:

Gel Repellents: Apply non-toxic gel repellents to ledges, beams, and other roosting sites. The gel creates a sticky surface that birds avoid landing on.
Ultrasonic Devices: Ultrasonic bird repellents emit high-frequency sounds that deter birds without disturbing humans. Place these devices in areas with high bird activity.

6. Use Decoy Predators

Placing decoy predators, such as owls or hawks, can help scare birds away from nesting sites:

Place Strategically: Position decoy predators near common nesting or roosting areas, such as roofs, chimneys, or gardens.
Move Decoys Regularly: Change the location of decoys frequently to prevent birds from becoming accustomed to them.

Humane Removal of Birds

If birds have already nested on your property, humane removal is crucial:

1. Handle with Care

Check for Protected Species: Some birds, like swallows and chimney swifts, are federally protected. It is illegal to remove nests with active eggs or chicks.
Wait for Fledglings to Leave: If birds are already nesting, wait until fledglings have left before removing the nest.

2. Use One-Way Exclusion Devices

One-way exclusion devices allow birds to leave a nesting site but prevent re-entry:

Install at Nest Entrances: Install one-way doors at vent openings or other entry points where birds have nested.
Remove Nests After Exit: Once birds have exited, remove nests, clean the area thoroughly, and seal the entry point to prevent future nesting.

3. Professional Bird Control Services

For large infestations or persistent nesting, hire a professional bird control service:

Safe Removal: Professionals have the tools and knowledge to safely remove birds, nests, and droppings without harming the birds.
Thorough Cleanup: Professional services can clean and disinfect areas affected by droppings, reducing health risks and preventing return.

How Bird Control Affects Home Insurance

Proper bird control can influence your home insurance coverage:

Reduced Property Damage: Preventing birds from nesting in or around your home reduces the risk of damage to roofs, siding, and ventilation systems, minimizing potential claims.
Compliance with Insurance Requirements: Some insurance policies require regular maintenance, including bird control, as part of property upkeep.
Lower Claim Likelihood: Effective bird control reduces the likelihood of filing insurance claims for damage caused by nesting, droppings, or blocked vents.

Preventing Future Bird Problems

Taking proactive steps can prevent future bird infestations:

Maintain Bird Deterrents: Regularly inspect and maintain deterrents like spikes, netting, and repellents to ensure effectiveness.
Conduct Regular Inspections: Inspect your home’s exterior for potential nesting sites, droppings, or damage, addressing issues promptly.
Keep Outdoor Areas Clean: Remove food sources like fallen fruit, birdseed, or compost piles that may attract birds.

When to Hire a Professional

While many bird control measures can be managed by homeowners, some situations require professional help:

Large Flocks or Persistent Nests: For large flocks or persistent nesting problems, a professional bird control service can provide more effective solutions.
Birds Inside Chimneys or Vents: If birds are inside chimneys or ventilation systems, a professional can safely remove them and recommend effective exclusion measures.
Health Hazards: If there is a significant accumulation of droppings, a professional cleaning service can remove waste safely, reducing the risk of disease.

Additional Resources

For more information on controlling birds, visit:

Audubon Society: Offers information on bird behavior, protection laws, and humane control methods. Visit Audubon for more guidance.
National Pest Management Association (NPMA): Provides tips and best practices for bird control and exclusion. Visit NPMA for expert advice.

Wrap-Up

Controlling birds around your home is essential for preventing damage, maintaining cleanliness, and reducing health risks. By implementing the humane prevention and control strategies outlined in this article, you can protect your property and ensure a safer environment for your family.

Consistent bird control not only improves your home’s safety but also supports compliance with insurance requirements and reduces potential claims.