Finding a dead bird in your house can be an unsettling experience. Birds should not be dying inside your home, so discovering a deceased avian indicates there is likely an issue that needs addressed. Here are some steps to take if you find a dead bird in your house.
Identify the Species
The first step is to identify what type of bird you have found. Different bird species have different reasons for entering houses and different health concerns. Being able to identify the bird will help you figure out how it got inside and if there are any risks associated with it. Here are some of the most common birds found dead in homes:
Bird | Description |
---|---|
Sparrow | Small brown bird with streaks on its belly |
Starling | Small black bird with iridescent feathers |
Pigeon | Plump gray bird with iridescent neck feathers |
Chimney Swift | Small black bird that nests in chimneys |
Woodpecker | Black and white bird with a long chisel-like beak |
If you are unsure of the species, take clear photos from multiple angles and consult an avian field guide or local bird watching group to get an identification. Knowing the type of bird is key to figuring out next actions.
Look for Evidence of How it Entered
Once you have identified the dead bird, look around the area where you found it for any evidence of how it may have entered your house. Check whether any windows or doors were left open which would have allowed it to fly inside. Also inspect the chimney, attic, and crawl spaces for any breaches that could have granted it access.
Birds may enter houses in a few ways:
- Down the chimney (common with Chimney Swifts)
- Through openings in the roof or attic
- Down the stove vent
- Through open doors or windows
- Through gaps around exterior vents, AC units, or pipes
Pinpointing how the bird got in will help you prevent more creatures from entering in the future. Make sure to seal up any gaps, holes, or openings you find that could be bird entry points.
Determine if there is a Larger Issue
A single bird entering a house is usually accidental. However, finding multiple deceased birds or nests/droppings in your home indicates a more extensive issue.
Here are some signs there could be a larger bird problem:
- Multiple dead birds found over time
- Bird nests built in vents, chimneys, or attics
- Bird droppings or feathers clustered in one area
- Sounds of birds moving within walls or chimneys
- Birds repeatedly getting trapped inside
If evidence points to a larger bird issue, you’ll need to take more intensive action to remove their entry points and keep them away from your home. Contact a wildlife exclusion service for assistance.
Evaluate Health Risks
Finding a dead bird also raises questions around potential health risks. While rare, birds can sometimes carry diseases transmittable to humans. Here are a few considerations regarding bird diseases:
Histoplasmosis
This lung infection is caused by a fungus often carried by pigeons and starlings. It can grow in accumulated bird droppings and be stirred up when cleaning them out. Avoid areas with bird waste, especially in attics or enclosed spaces. Have droppings removed by a professional service.
Psittacosis
Also called parrot fever, this bacterial disease can be carried by parrots, pigeons, sparrows, and more. It causes flu-like symptoms in humans. Wear gloves, mask, and protective clothing when handling any dead bird.
Salmonella
The salmonella bacteria lives in bird digestive systems and can be contracted from their droppings. Use caution cleaning up after dead birds and sanitize hands and surfaces afterwards.
West Nile Virus
This virus is sometimes carried by birds and spread via mosquito bites. Wear long pants and sleeves when removing dead birds in warm months when mosquitos are active.
Overall, take safety precautions but don’t panic. The chances of a dead bird transmitting disease to humans are very low. Practice common sense hygiene and contact a doctor if any severe flu symptoms appear after handling a dead bird.
Dispose of the Body Properly
To prevent health risks, the dead bird should be safely removed and disposed of. Here are some tips for safe disposal:
- Wear gloves, long sleeves, pants, and a face mask when handling the body.
- Use a shovel or bag to scoop up the bird without direct contact.
- Double bag the bird within sealed plastic bags.
- Bury the bags or cans outdoors or place in an outdoor garbage can for normal waste removal.
- Clean the area thoroughly where the bird was found with detergent. Sanitize with disinfectant.
- Wash hands, clothes, and any other exposed materials with soap after.
Never dispose of dead birds in indoor garbage cans or by flushing. Safely burying or double-bagging prevents the spread of any bacteria or viruses the bird may have carried.
Call a Professional if Needed
For large bird infestations or nests with live birds still present, do not attempt removal on your own. Call a professional wildlife control company or pest control operator to handle. They have the proper equipment, protective gear, and training to address larger bird issues found inside homes. They can also assist with nest removal, damage repairs, and prevention recommendations.
Here are some signs it’s time to call the pros:
- Birds trapped and flying within house walls
- Large nests or heavy droppings in walls, chimneys, or attics
- Signs of structural damage from bird activity
Don’t let the problem get worse. Get professional assistance removing live birds and repairing any damages.
Prevent Future Incidents
Finding a dead bird inside is a sign there may be gaps in your home’s exterior they are exploiting to enter. Some prevention measures include:
- Installing bird netting over exterior vents, openings, and chimneys
- Plugging holes or sealing cracks along roof, sides, and around windows
- Clearing gutters and trim areas where birds often nest
- Letting pets outside to patrol yards and discourage bird entry
- Using metallic flash tape, porcupine wire strips, or other deterrents
A little bird-proofing can prevent unsafe situations in the future and keep your home free of unwanted avian visitors. Be vigilant in looking for gaps and openings they could sneak through.
Conclusion
Discovering a deceased bird in your house can certainly be unnerving. However, following proper identification, disposal, and disinfection procedures reduces any risks involved. Evaluate how the bird may have entered and seal up access holes. Monitor for further activity. Call in help to remove large nests or infestations. And take preventative measures to keep wild birds out of your living space in the future. With proper response, a single dead bird should not cause excessive worry or require major action. Use it as an opportunity to improve your home’s defense against uninvited animals. Through vigilance and proactive repairs, you can make sure your home remains a bird-free zone going forward.