Pest birds: the complete guide

The lifecycle of a bird has multiple stages, including eggs, nestlings, juveniles, and adults. Pigeons can live an average of six years, though some pigeon species can live up to 10 years. Starlings have an average lifespan of 2-3 years, and sparrows usually live about 3 years.

Pest birds’ nests can cause damage to a property. Their nests and nesting materials can clog pipes and cause electrical outages. Some pest bird species will nest in roof vents, which can block airflow. These species are also very protective of their nests and can become aggressive if they feel threatened.

The majority of pest birds will feed on anything from human food to trash. All pest birds will feed on trash, but some species prefer grains like pigeons and sparrows. In addition to grains, sparrows will eat fruits, vegetables, and flowers, and starlings will feed on fruit, seeds, and grubs.

• Birds are known to carry a range of diseases from the bacteria in their droppings. Some diseases associated with pest birds are: 

  • E. coli - Sometimes birds eat material from cow manure, creating the risk of an E. coli transmission through bird droppings that can end up in water supplies or food.

  • Salmonella - This bacteria is found in bird droppings. It can dry and become dusty, and can then get sucked into air vents, ending up on food or in water.

  • Fungal infections - Such as histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis. These infections can affect the lungs or the heart of those infected and are primarily transmitted by seagulls.

  • St. Louis Encephalitis - This disease is an inflammation of the nervous system that can actually lead to coma and death.

The best way to get rid of birds on your property is to make your property less appealing to them. Using different repellents and deterrents, including products such as bird spikes, bird nets, Avian Block™, and Bird-Out™, will force the birds to relocate and nest in a different location.

The best way to protect your property from the noise and smell of a seagull infestation is with professional seagull control. Western Exterminator Technicians use a variety of humane and effective bird control methods to keep seagulls off of your property. These include exclusion, netting, grid systems, deterrents, or UV repellents.

Soliciting the help of a professional pigeon control expert is the best way to get rid of pigeons on your property. The Western Exterminator Technicians know how to control pigeons and will choose the right control method based on the circumstances. Some pigeon control methods include exclusion, netting, trapping, UV repellents, or sensory perch modifications.

There are various methods to get rid of starlings on your property. The method chosen will depend on a few factors, such as property type, area of application, and location. Some methods include exclusion, netting, single bird traps, UV repellents, and misting.

To get rid of birds around your business, use deterrent products that encourage the bird to land and/or nest somewhere else. If you own a restaurant, make sure you keep the outdoor trash area clean and as far away from the business as possible. Also, bus tables quickly if you have outdoor seating.