Feathered Foes: A Definitive Guide to Bird
Pest Control in the UK

 

Ah, birds! The songsters of the skies, the harbingers of spring. But wait, what’s that? Pigeon droppings on your shiny new car, seagulls rummaging through bin lids, or starlings nesting in the roof areas? Suddenly, these feathered friends turn into feathered foes.

In the UK, especially in urban areas and city centres, bird infestations can be more than just a nuisance. Their presence poses a threat to people’s health, safety, and property. This article will give you the full range of bird pest control measures available in the United Kingdom.

So, let’s dive in, shall we? By the end of this read, you’ll know how to prevent birds from becoming a bird problem around your property through effective bird control measures.

 

The Importance of Bird Pest Control

 

Bird pest control is essential for multiple reasons:

Health Concerns: Birds, especially pigeons and gulls, can carry diseases. Their droppings can
be the breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Watch out for feral pigeons, as these common pigeons are often carriers of diseases.

Property Damage: Bird droppings can corrode buildings, while nests can block gutters and
damage structures. This is where bird control and proofing come in handy to prevent such hazards.

Food Contamination: Birds can contaminate food sources in storage areas and pose a threat to businesses, especially in the food industry. Bird netting and bird spikes are often used in these scenarios for bird management.

 

The Toolbox: Physical Control Techniques

 

 

Bird Netting

Bird netting is the bee’s knees when it comes to preventing birds from entering specific areas. Who wants a pigeon nest on their balcony, right?

Materials:

• Polyethylene – Strong, and light weight
• Nylon – Tough material

Mesh Size:

• 19mm – Perfect to keep smaller birds like sparrows at bay.
• 50mm – Ideal for keeping larger birds such as pigeons and gulls out.

Some folks strongly recommend bird netting as a bird control method to prevent birds from making a nest on your property.

 

Bird Spikes

Bird spikes make surfaces uncomfortable for birds to land on. This includes the notorious bird control spike and pigeon spike installations.

Materials:

• Stainless Steel – strong
• Polycarbonate – Lightweight

 

 

 

Did you know bird spikes are also used as seagull spikes? They deter birds from roosting on ledges and window ledges.

 

 

 

Lasers

Some bird control lasers can reduce bird presence by more than 70%. When the laser is pointed at the birds, it activates their natural fight or flight response, causing them to flee.

Types:

• Handheld – It is made to be used in places where an automatic system might not work as well.
• Automated – The laser is set up to scare birds away around the clock.
• Shock track systems also keep birds at bay, and they’re quite the high-tech bird control method!

Decoys

Sometimes, trickery is the key! Decoys like plastic owls and hawks make real birds think there’s a predator lurking. However, be careful. Some birds are quite the Einsteins and may see through the ruse.

Types:

• Static – Like a scarecrow, but for birds.
• Moving – More realistic and less likely to be figured out by our feathered foes.

Bird repellers and decoys go hand-in-hand in deterring birds.

 

Bird Wire

A tightrope that birds just can’t balance on.

Types:

• Nylon Coated – Subtle and almost invisible.
• Stainless Steel – Strong, like a cup of black coffee.

Bird wires work well with post and wire systems, and they’re an essential part of bird proofing.

 

Gel Repellent

Gel repellents make surfaces sticky, so birds can’t perch. They might as well find somewhere else to crash!

Types:

• Transparent – Like an invisible shield.
• Coloured – Sometimes, you just have to let them see they’re not welcome.

Some professional bird controllers recommend using bird repellent gels to keep those pesky birds from roosting.

 

 

Chemical Control Techniques

 

 

The employment of chemicals to dissuade or repel birds from specified regions is referred to as chemical bird control. It usually entails the use of chemical agents to produce an unpleasant or harmful environment for birds, deterring them from roosting, nesting, or eating in the treated area.

 

Avicides

Avicides are used to control pest bird populations. Use with caution!

Types:

• Fenthion – Not for the faint-hearted.
• DRC-1339 – The heavy artillery.

Bird controllers should be mindful of the regulations surrounding the use of avicides in the UK.

 

Repellents

There’s an array of chemical repellents to keep birds at bay, including sprays, gels, and granules.

Types:

• Methyl Anthranilate – It’s like hot sauce for birds.
• Anthraquinone – Let’s just call it the bird boogeyman.
• Hazards need to be considered; safety comes first!

 

Natural Control Techniques

 

 

Sometimes, Mother Nature provides the best solutions.

 

Birds of Prey

Nothing says “scram!” like a big, bad hawk staring you down.

Types:

• Falcons – The falcon is the fighter jet of the bird world.
• Hawks – The intimidating bouncers at a club.

Using birds of prey, such as hawking kites, is an effective way to deal with bird infestations.

 

Dogs

Man’s best friend is also a bird’s worst nightmare. Dogs, especially breeds like Border Collies, can be used to scare away gulls and other birds.

This is a humane bird control method, particularly useful in dealing with nuisance birds like gulls nesting on large properties.

 

Regulations and Legislation in the UK

 

 

Know your boundaries! The Wildlife and Countryside Act in the UK protects several bird species. Don’t go all guns blazing without knowing the rules.

 

Environmental Impact

We have to tread lightly on Mother Earth. When considering bird pest control methods, think about the impact on non-target species and ecosystems.

Ecosystem Balance

Messing with bird populations can sometimes lead to an imbalance in the ecosystem.
For example, reducing a pigeon population could lead to an increase in insects, as pigeons feed on them.

Non-Target Species

It’s important to ensure that control measures do not negatively impact other wildlife. Bird trapping, for instance, must be conducted carefully to avoid capturing non-target bird species.

 

Professional Help

 

 

Know when it is time to call in the experts.

Professional bird control is supplied by bird management and prevention professionals like Apex Pest Control. This includes preventing birds from breeding or roosting on buildings, structures, or farms and reducing bird damage and health threats.

Common professional bird control methods include:

Bird netting: Blocking birds from particular places using netting.
Spikes on ledges, signs, and other surfaces to deter birds from perching or roosting.
Scarecrows, shiny surfaces, and predator sounds can repel birds from certain regions.
Trapping and shifting troublesome birds to a better environment.
Bird repellents: Non-toxic or chemical deterrents to prevent birds from landing or feeding.

Call your local pest control company that offer bird control to discover expert bird control services near you.

Types of Services:

• Site Assessment
• Treatment and Prevention Plans
• Monitoring

When you need to get rid of pigeons or other pest birds, professional pest controllers with specialist qualifications are your go-to guys.

 

Emergency Pest Control

 

Sometimes, bird issues need immediate attention, especially when they pose health risks. In such cases, calling in for emergency pest control services becomes essential.

Heat Treatments and Flea Treatments

Heat treatments can be used to get rid of bird mites from buildings, while flea treatments can address insect infestations. These are especially useful when dealing with bird nests housing crawling pests.

Home Remedies

Hey, don’t knock it until you try it! Sometimes simple solutions can be effective.

Examples:

• Aluminium Foil Strips
• Spices

Placing bird feeders away from your house can also help in diverting birds away.

 

Wrapping up the Nest: A Soaring Conclusion to Your Bird Pest Control Journey

 

Now you have the whole picture on bird pest control in the UK! From physical barriers like bird spikes to natural methods with birds of prey, there’s a bird control method for every scenario. It’s essential to consider the environmental impact and legalities when dealing with bird removal.

And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to call in the pros for some expert bird management.

 

FAQs

 

What should I do if I find a nest with eggs on my property?

In the UK, it’s illegal to remove nests during the breeding season. It’s best to wait until the birds have left or seek advice from a professional bird controller.

Can bird droppings make me sick?

Yes, bird droppings can carry diseases and cause health issues. It’s crucial to keep areas clean and free of bird mess, such as pigeon guano.

Are there humane ways to deter birds from my property?

Absolutely! From bird spikes to using birds of prey, there are many humane ways to deter birds. Solar panel bird proofing is an example that protects both the birds and your property.

So, go ahead, roll up your sleeves and make your property a no-fly zone for those pesky winged invaders. But remember, always respect Mother Nature and the law. Safe flying! Wink.

 

What are some common bird deterrents used in bird pest control?

There are several bird deterrents available, including bird spikes, netting, ultrasonic devices, and birds of prey. These deterrents help to keep birds away from specific areas without harming them and are especially useful for protecting properties from damage or health risks associated with bird droppings.

 

Can birds actually bite humans? Is it something to be concerned about?

Some birds can bite humans, especially if they feel threatened or are protecting their nests. While most bird bites are not severe, it’s always wise to be cautious, particularly with larger birds or species known to be more aggressive. It’s also important to be mindful of the potential for transmission of diseases through bites.

 

Are there any British birds that are particularly troublesome as pests?

Yes, in the United Kingdom, some birds are considered to be more of a nuisance than others. Common examples include pigeons, gulls, and starlings. These birds are often found in urban areas and can cause issues such as property damage, noise, and health concerns due to their droppings.

 

What role does the British Pest Control Association play in bird pest control?

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) plays a vital role in providing training, support, and advice for pest control professionals. The BPCA establishes standards and best practises for handling and controlling pest species, including birds, in an effective and humane manner.

 

How can control and bird proofing work together to protect my property from birds?

Control measures aim to reduce or remove existing bird populations from an area, while bird proofing is about preventing birds from returning. Utilising bird spikes, netting, or other deterrents, along with control measures such as removal or using birds of prey, create a comprehensive approach to managing bird issues on your property.

 

How should I handle dead birds found on my property?

If you find dead birds on your property, it’s important to handle them with care to avoid any health risks. Use gloves, place the bird in a sealed bag, and dispose of it in an outdoor bin. If you notice multiple dead birds, it might be wise to contact a local pest control expert or the relevant authorities, as this could indicate a larger issue.

 

What are typical entry points that birds use to get into buildings?

Birds commonly use openings such as vents, chimneys, loose siding, and gaps under eaves or roof tiles as entry points into buildings. Regularly inspecting and sealing these entry points can be a proactive way to prevent birds from getting inside.

 

Why is it essential to bird-proof fire escapes?

Fire escapes are often used by birds as nesting or perching sites. This can lead to a buildup of droppings, which are not only unsanitary but can make fire escapes slippery and hazardous in case of an emergency. Ensuring fire escapes are bird-proofed is crucial for safety.

 

What is gull proofing and why is it important?

Gull proofing involves implementing measures to prevent gulls from nesting or perching on buildings. This is important because gulls can be aggressive, particularly during nesting season, and their droppings can cause damage to properties and pose health risks.

 

Are house sparrows considered a pest bird?

House sparrows can be considered pest birds when they nest in large numbers on properties, causing damage or creating noise issues. However, as their population has declined in some areas, it’s important to consider local regulations before taking action against them.

 

What are the most effective methods of bird control?

There is a range of methods for bird control, including physical deterrents like spikes and netting, using birds of prey, auditory devices, and chemical repellents. The most effective method can vary depending on the bird species and the specifics of the situation.

 

What steps can be taken for bird pest control if there’s a severe infestation?

In the case of a severe infestation, a combination of methods is often the most effective. This could include removing access to food sources, using deterrents like spikes or nets, and employing bird removal services. Consulting a professional who specialises in pest bird control is strongly recommended.

 

How can I safely remove sparrows’ nests from my property?

Removing sparrows’ nests should be done outside the breeding season and with care to not harm the birds. It’s often best to seek assistance from a professional bird controller, especially if the nests are in hard-to-reach places or there are a large number of them.