Dealing with a Bird Infestation: Why You Need a Professional
Birds can be a beautiful part of nature, but when they start making a home in places, they shouldn’t like your attic, warehouse, or restaurant also quickly become a nuisance. As someone who’s dealt with an unwelcome pigeon family in my own warehouse, I can tell you that a bird infestation is no small problem. If you find yourself struggling with noisy birds, droppings, or even structural damage, it’s time to consider reaching out to a professional pest control exterminator.
In this article, we’ll dive into the issue of bird infestations, why they can cause problems, and how a pest control expert can help solve the issue effectively and safely. Whether you’re a homeowner in King County or managing a business in cities like Seattle, Bellevue, or Redmond, understanding how to deal with bird infestations is key to maintaining a safe and healthy environment.
The Impact of Bird Infestations
Why Birds Are More Than Just an Annoyance
Birds in the wrong places can do more than just make noise also cause significant damage. Imagine a large group of pigeons roosting in your building. Over time, their droppings can erode roofing materials, clog gutters, and even lead to costly repairs. These birds can also damage electrical systems and insulation by nesting in hard-to-reach places.
Birds like pigeons, sparrows, and starlings are notorious for being persistent once they’ve set up shop. They often target structures that provide them with shelter and access to food, like attics, eaves, and vents. A bird infestation isn’t just unsightly it’s a potential hazard to both your property and your health.
I remember when I first noticed signs of bird nesting in the eaves of my home. It started small, but the next thing I knew, I was dealing with the unpleasant odor and health risks of bird droppings accumulating around my property. What I thought was a minor nuisance turned into a full-fledged issue that required professional intervention.
Health and Safety Risks of Birds in Your Building
Birds pose several health risks due to their droppings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bird droppings can carry diseases like histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and even avian influenza. These diseases can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with the droppings or by inhaling dust that contains spores.
In addition to the health risks, birds can also attract other pests, such as mites, lice, and fleas. These pests can further complicate an already stressful situation.
If you’re managing a daycare, healthcare facility, or restaurant, the stakes are even higher. You need to protect your clients, staff, and visitors from potential harm. A professional pest control exterminator can take care of the infestation before it escalates into a bigger problem.
Signs of a Bird Infestation
How to Recognize a Bird Problem Early
The first step in solving any infestation is recognizing the signs early. Here are a few signs that you may have a bird infestation on your hands:
1. Excessive Noise:
If you’re hearing loud cooing, chirping, or flapping sounds in your attic or walls, it could be a sign that birds are nesting. These noises often become more noticeable during breeding season.
2. Droppings:
Bird droppings around entryways, windowsills, and rooftops are one of the most obvious signs of a bird infestation. Not only do they look unsightly, but they also pose health risks.
3. Nests:
Look for signs of nesting. Birds often use materials like twigs, feathers, and other debris to create nests. These can be found in gutters, vents, and under eaves.
4. Damaged Property:
If you notice that your gutters are clogged with debris, insulation is missing, or electrical systems are malfunctioning, birds might be to blame.
5. Increased Bird Activity:
Watch for large groups of birds gathering near your property. If they are roosting in one area, it could indicate that they are setting up permanent residence.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore These Signs
If left unchecked, bird infestations can quickly spiral out of control. The longer you wait to address the problem, the more difficult and costly it will be to remove the birds. Ignoring the issue can lead to structural damage, contamination, and health risks for anyone in the building.
I’ve learned the hard way that what starts as a small issue can turn into a much bigger one if you don’t act quickly. After noticing a few bird droppings around my windows, I initially thought it was a one-time thing. A few weeks later, I found myself with a full-blown pigeon problem that required a professional pest control exterminator to handle the removal and clean-up.
Professional Pest Control for Bird Infestations
The Importance of Hiring a Professional Exterminator
While it may seem tempting to handle a bird infestation yourself, there are several reasons why it’s best to hire a professional pest control expert:
1. Expertise:
Professionals have the training and experience to safely remove birds and their nests without causing damage to your property or putting themselves at risk. They also understand the behavior of different bird species and know how to prevent future infestations.
2. Safety:
Birds can be aggressive when protecting their nests. A professional exterminator will know how to handle these situations safely, using the proper equipment and techniques to avoid injury.
3. Humane Removal:
A professional pest control company will ensure that birds are removed humanely, following all local laws and regulations regarding the treatment of wildlife.
4. Prevention:
Beyond just removal, a professional will help identify potential entry points and recommend ways to prevent birds from returning. This could include installing bird spikes, netting, or other deterrents.
The Process of Professional Bird Removal
A typical bird control service will follow these general steps:
1. Inspection:
The first step is a thorough inspection of your property. The exterminator will look for signs of birds and nests, assess the damage, and determine the best course of action.
2. Removal:
Using safe and humane methods, the exterminator will remove the birds and any nests. They may use traps, nets, or other equipment to capture and relocate the birds.
3. Clean-Up:
Bird droppings and nests need to be carefully cleaned up to avoid health risks. The exterminator will properly dispose of the waste and sanitize the area to ensure a safe environment.
4. Exclusion:
The exterminator will seal off any potential entry points to prevent birds from returning. This could include repairing holes, installing bird-proofing devices, or recommending changes to your property’s environment.
How Long Does Bird Removal Take?
The time it takes to handle a bird infestation depends on the size of the problem. A small infestation may be resolved in just one or two visits, while a larger infestation may require multiple visits. The process may also take longer if extensive repairs or bird-proofing measures are necessary.
It’s important to remember that while bird removal is important, the prevention aspect is key to avoiding future problems.
Tips for Preventing Bird Infestations
While professional pest control is essential for dealing with an existing infestation, there are several things you can do to prevent birds from settling on your property in the first place:
1. Seal Entry Points:
Inspect your property for gaps, holes, and vents that birds could use to enter. Sealing these entry points can make it much harder for birds to gain access.
2. Use Bird Deterrents:
Consider installing bird spikes, netting, or reflective surfaces around your property. These devices discourage birds from landing and roosting.
3. Keep Your Property Clean:
Remove food sources that may attract birds. This includes keeping your trash sealed and cleaning up crumbs or other potential food sources around your property.
4. Trim Trees and Bushes:
If you have trees or bushes near your property, consider trimming them to prevent birds from nesting too close to your building. Birds love to nest in sheltered, high places.
A Word of Caution
If you do decide to handle the situation on your own, make sure to wear protective clothing and take necessary precautions. Dealing with bird droppings can be hazardous, especially if you are not equipped to handle the clean-up safely.
Protect Your Property and Health from Bird Infestations
Bird infestations are more than just an inconvenience also cause significant damage and pose health risks if not addressed quickly. If you’re facing a bird infestation, the best course of action is to contact a professional pest control exterminator. These experts can handle the removal safely, clean up any messes, and provide long-term solutions to prevent birds from returning.
Don’t wait for the situation to escalate take action now to protect your home, business, and the people who depend on it. Bird infestations can be challenging, but with the right help, they can be solved in no time.
