Birds are a natural part of the environment, but some birds can become a problem when they settle near homes or businesses.
Pest birds, or nuisance birds, often gather in large numbers, leaving behind bird droppings that can corrode paint and metal surfaces. They can also build nests in eaves, gutters, or under solar panels. These issues can lead to blocked ventilation, fire hazards, and even spread diseases and bacteria like histoplasmosis and salmonella.
Whether you’re dealing with a small bird problem or a growing flock that can infest rooftops or vents, understanding bird behavior and available bird deterrents can help protect your property.
Find out how Western Exterminator can control birds at your home or business.
Pest birds are invasive and are often considered a nuisance. They have become accustomed to living in close proximity to humans and overpopulate many areas. There are many different types of birds, but only pigeons, starlings, and sparrows are labeled as pest birds. That’s because these birds are not native to the United States, not federally protected, and not typically considered to be beneficial to the environment.
Pest birds can also cause significant damage to different property types due to both their nesting materials and droppings. These birds and their droppings can also carry several diseases that can negatively affect health and well-being.
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While most birds are a pleasant part of the environment, a few species have learned to thrive alongside humans. The following birds are common pests in the Western U.S.:
Pigeons are one of the most common pest birds in North America. They group together in large numbers and have grown accustomed to living around humans
Starlings are common nesters around homes and are notorious for flocking in huge numbers. They’re known for aggressive competition with other bird species for nesting sites
Sparrows are very used to living around humans. They can be a huge nuisance, as they usually return to the same nesting place each year, causing recurring damage to homes
Pest birds are not always obvious at first. In many cases, the signs build up over time before the birds themselves become a noticeable issue. Spotting these early can help you act before the problem gets worse.
Birds are drawn to properties that offer easy access to food, water, and shelter. Once they find a suitable spot, they are likely to return and bring others with them.
In the Western US, the birds considered pests are pigeons, starlings, and sparrows. Depending on your location, other species such as gulls, crows, and even woodpeckers can also be a major nuisance.
Common problems include blocked gutters and drainage systems, clogged ventilation ducts, damaged insulation, and the accelerated corrosion of roofing materials, siding, and signage due to acidic droppings.
Droppings create unsanitary conditions and may be linked to certain respiratory diseases when they dry out and become airborne. They also present a serious slip-and-fall risk on walkways, entrances, and loading bays, while the buildup can attract secondary pests like flies, mites, and beetles.
If birds are returning every day, gathering in large groups, or roosting on your building overnight, it is likely more than a minor nuisance. You should also look for persistent nesting materials in eaves or vents, a heavy accumulation of droppings, and constant noise that indicates a colony has settled in.
Properties with easy access to food, water, and elevated shelter are the most at risk. Design features like flat ledges, covered alcoves, solar panels, and large signs provide ideal nesting and perching spots. Nearby food sources, such as open trash containers or outdoor dining, will also draw birds to the area.
Yes. Professional bird control focuses on humane deterrence and exclusion rather than harm. Our methods encourage birds to relocate to a more natural environment.
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