Birds can cause a lot of problems when they nest or roost in buildings. Their droppings are unsightly and can damage property. Birds sometimes damage insulation or electrical wiring. Their feathers and nesting materials can clog gutters and ductwork. Birds can also carry parasites and diseases.
Here are some common questions and answers about how to keep birds away from buildings:
Why do birds try to get into buildings?
Birds are attracted to buildings for several reasons:
- Shelter – Buildings provide safe places for birds to nest and roost.
- Food – Bird feeders near buildings attract birds. Birds can also find food scraps, insects, spiders, and other things to eat in or around buildings.
- Water – Sources of water like roof gutters, drains, and bird baths draw birds to buildings.
- Heat – Birds are drawn to the warmth that buildings provide in colder weather.
What are some humane ways to deter birds from buildings?
Here are some humane methods to discourage birds from getting too close to buildings:
- Remove food sources – Clean up food scraps and spilled seed from bird feeders. Use feeders designed to minimize spillage.
- Remove water sources – Keep gutters clean and free of standing water. Change water in bird baths frequently.
- Use deterrents – Install devices like wire mesh, metal spikes, slope panels, and bird netting to block roosting spots and nest sites.
- Use repellents – Apply non-toxic gels, liquids or granules containing methyl anthranilate or capsaicin to discourage perching.
- Scare tactics – Use decoys, streamers, and reflective tape to startle and scare away birds.
- Sound repellents – Deter birds with recordings of distress calls and predatory bird calls.
What products can I use to repel birds from buildings?
Here are some recommended products for bird control and exclusion:
Physical Bird Deterrents
- Bird netting – Install netting over roosting areas, eaves, rafters, ledges, and other entry points.
- Bird spikes – Porcupine wire and plastic spikes can be applied to ledges and roosts.
- Slope panels – Angled panels prevent birds from perching on ledges and roofs.
- Wire mesh – Small gauge wire or landscape fabric can block access to nesting cavities.
Visual Bird Repellents
- Scare tape – Mylar and holographic tapes flap in the wind to frighten birds.
- Predator decoys – Lifelike replicas of hawks, owls, and snakes can scare birds away.
- Reflective surfaces – Mirrors or metallic strips confuse and frighten roosting birds.
Sonic Bird Deterrents
- Ultrasonic devices – Emit high-frequency sounds inaudible to humans to irritate birds.
- Predator bird calls – Deter birds with recordings of hawk and owl calls.
- Distress call systems – Repels birds by broadcasting alarm and distress calls.
- Sonic nets – Thin speaker wires can be installed under ledges to emit ultrasonic sound.
Chemical Bird Repellents
- Methyl anthranilate – Grape flavoring irritates birds with no harm to humans or pets.
- Capsaicin – Extracted from chili peppers causes a burning sensation.
- Avitrol – Causes distress in birds that ingest treated bait leading flock to leave.
When is professional bird management necessary?
In some cases, it is best to have a professional pest control company handle bird problems. Consider hiring professionals if:
- There is a large, persistent bird infestation.
- Birds are nesting inside hard to reach areas of a building.
- DIY bird deterrents have not solved the problem.
- Droppings and feathers accumulate in ventilation systems.
- Birds are causing structural damage or significant health/safety issues.
- Removing nests, eggs, or dead birds from hard to access areas is needed.
Companies have access to equipment like boom lifts, scaffolding, and pole cameras to remove nests from inside buildings and properly seal out birds.
What methods do professional pest services use?
Bird management professionals use an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach that combines several methods:
- Inspection – Thoroughly assess bird entry points, roosts, nests, and food/water sources.
- Exclusion – Physically block entry points and access to nesting spots with materials like netting, hardware cloth, or roof patching.
- Removal and cleanup – Remove nests, dead birds, droppings, and feather debris.
- Deterrent installation – Apply gels/liquids, place spike strips, install ultrasonic devices.
- Population reduction – Remove problematic roosts and nests and use Allowed by permits in some cases.
This integrated approach helps safely evict existing birds and permanently prevent future bird problems.
How much does professional bird control cost?
The cost of professional bird management depends on several factors:
- Size of the property
- Severity of the infestation
- Accessibility of bird roosting and nesting areas
- Types of removal and exclusion methods needed
To give an idea of potential costs, here are some rough estimates:
Service | Cost |
---|---|
Inspection fee | $100 – $200 |
Nest removal and droppings cleanup | $250 – $500 per entry point |
Install bird spikes/netting | $5 – $20 per linear foot |
Seal roof vents or louvers | $150 – $300 each |
Ultrasonic bird repeller | $50 – $150 per device |
Get a free on-site estimate from local companies to determine the exact costs for your specific bird problem and location.
How can I find a professional bird control company?
Here are some tips for finding a qualified company to get rid of birds:
- Search online for “bird control” or “bird exclusion services”.
- Check reviews and ratings on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
- Ask neighbors, friends, and colleagues for referrals.
- Verify necessary state and local licenses, permits, and certifications.
- Make sure the company is insured for liability and workers compensation.
- Ask about their experience and methods for bird removal.
- Request references from recent customers with similar bird problems.
- Get a detailed inspection report and free estimate in writing.
Reputable bird management professionals should provide effective solutions while following codes, regulations, and proper work practices.
Conclusion
Birds can be difficult and messy to deter from buildings. Start with humane do-it-yourself techniques like habitat modification and repellents. Seek professional help if the bird infestation persists or causes significant damage. Qualified pest control companies have the expertise and equipment to fully remove birds, clean up the mess, and permanently seal out future bird problems.