Commercial and Residential Bird Control
Commercial and Residential Bird Control
As one of the most ubiquitous animals in our cities, birds rarely go unseen. What cannot go unnoticed, however, is the damage they cause, in terms of both the physical destruction inflicted upon buildings, and the implications of their presence for public health and business reputations. Wherever a flock of birds exists, so too does the potential for lasting damage to premises caused by the build up of acidic droppings and nesting materials. Birds also carry a range of diseases that can be threatening to humans. It is with this in mind that businesses, local authorities and home owners must ensure that a proactive and thorough approach is taken to controlling birds, to ensure their potential to do harm is limited.
Busy cities with large numbers of people provide a multitude of food sources for pests. With food, birds, and people all in such close quarters, there is a high risk of birds spreading harmful diseases. Often, birds feed from polluted sources such as rubbish dumps, and bring germs directly to human environments such as picnics and outdoor eating areas. Gulls and pigeons are the two worst species when it comes to spreading disease. Pigeons carry the widest range of diseases of any bird, and have a tendency to breed very quickly. Gulls are particularly problematic due to their threatening and aggressive behaviour, especially during mating season from May to August.
Aside from protecting the local community from the implications of pest birds, councils also need to ensure their historic buildings and monuments are protected from unnecessary damage. Erosion caused by bacteria from bird droppings can result in irreversible damage to the structure of buildings especially buildings of age. For this reason it is important to be vigilant in ensuring that birds are not able to settle permanently in any area and become a nuisance.
The pest control industry has developed a range of ethical bird control methods, focussing on the principles of exclusion and restriction. Some of the most commonly employed methods include wire or point deterrent systems. These wire strands and metal points are non-lethal and discreet ways in which birds are prevented from settling on and around buildings, with benefits including a reduction in mess, noise, and the risk of infection to staff and visitors. Other methods include netting systems to cover large areas, and metal spikes to protect beams and ledges.
Anyone considering bird control should ensure they take a sensitive approach when considering the best way to tackle the infestation. Pest control experts are in the best position to advice on the most effective ways to safeguard your property from both exterior damage and possible public health risks.