When dealing with bird infestations, some homeowners may be tempted to go the DIY route. Highly discouraged!
Many things can go wrong when you undertake bird removal by yourself.
Besides harming the defenseless animals, DIY bird elimination also carries significant health risks. Studies suggest that both wild and domestic birds may act as disease vectors, transmitting potentially deadly zoonotic pathogens to unsuspecting homeowners.
DIY bird removal has legal implications too. Not to mention, capturing live birds can be extremely difficult.
Fortunately, you don’t need to undertake bird removal by yourself. With professional help, you can get these intrusive animals safely and efficiently eliminated from your property.
Let’s explore various ways experts handle bird infestations without harming them.
Deploying Bird Spikes
Bird spikes exclude birds from your property by eliminating flat, comfortable perching spaces. They’re most effective against larger urban birds, such as rock pigeons, gulls, and woodpeckers.
If you suspect a bird infestation on your property, contact a bird removal near you and have them safely deploy spikes. The needles are commonly installed in strips on known landing spots like narrow ledges, parapets, and signs.
Because the goal is exclusion and not trapping, bird spikes should be blunt and non-poisoned.
Fending Off Infestations with Netting
Bird netting is another safe strategy used by expert pest control companies to safely rid our homes of menacing birds. The nets provide a physical barrier, blocking the birds completely from entering the targeted zone.
To eliminate an infestation, professionals stretch out and fasten a heavy-duty mesh on open-side structures. The woven mesh blocks off entry to potential nesting and roosting sites, while maintaining critical airflow and light penetration.
Common spaces where bird netting may be effective include;
- Balconies
- Open courtyards
- Warehouses
- Rooftops
- Fruit farms
Using Wire Mesh
Wire mesh serves the same fundamental purpose as bird netting – blocking physical entry into a space.
First, professionals identify a spring-tensioned stainless steel wire. They then position the cable at different heights along linear fascias and ledges.
Approaching birds instantly notice the wobbly landing surface and fly away.
To safely deter invading birds, experts utilize wire mesh with a smooth, non-spiky surface. This allows birds that make contact with the surface to fly away without getting their feet bruised.
Installing Electric Track Systems
Electric track systems are flexible, low-profile tracks that emit a harmless static pulse when birds land on them. Like most bird deterrents, these systems are commonly installed on rooflines and ledges.
Most electric track systems are highly inconspicuous. Therefore, they can protect your property from bird invasion without attracting unwanted attention. The systems are also ideal for commercial storefronts and complex architectural buildings where maintaining optimal aesthetics is a priority.
Since electric track systems only activate when birds step on them, they can offer a very effective psychological deterrence against persistent invaders.
Applying Repellent Gels
Repellent gels can be textured or sensory-based.
Textured gels feel uncomfortably sticky to a bird’s feet, dissuading them from exploring your property further. They may also reflect ultraviolet (UV) light that resembles fire, tricking birds into believing their favorite landing spots are ablaze.
Experts utilize approved waxy substances that repel birds without causing long-term discomfort to their feet.
Meanwhile, sensory-based gels deter birds by emitting repulsive odors.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stipulates the active ingredients in pest control formulations, including products prescribed for restricted use. By utilizing such formulas, professionals safely eliminate birds from your property while maintaining statutory compliance.
Setting up Sonic/Acoustic Repellents
Sonic repellents utilize sound waves to deter birds. They emit high-decibel noises that create an inhospitable environment, fending off new intruders and flushing out existing infestations.
For maximum efficiency, bird control experts may install acoustic systems that mimic;
- Human conversations
- Distress calls
- Predator activities, such as barking or screeching
- Sharp, high-frequency sounds
If you live in a densely populated suburb, bird exterminators may install ultrasonic repellents.
Ultrasonic systems emit high-frequency sound waves that aren’t immediately audible to humans. They work in the background, disorienting invading birds without disturbing the public peace.
Note, however, that ultrasonic repellents are less effective than sonic systems.
Mounting Visual Scare Devices
Visual bird scares can be super effective, particularly if installed in strategic spots and designed to mimic feared predators. Scares act as realistic decoys, tricking a bird into believing a real predator is prowling their favorite perching spaces.
Some visual devices an exterminator may install include;
- Reflective tapes
- Shiny spirals
- Hanging CDs
- Scarecrows
- Decoy predators (cats, snakes, owls, etc.
- Flapping wings
- Flashing lights
- Eye-pattered balloons
Because visual scares are static, birds may become accustomed to them over time. The thumb rule is to replace them every few days.
Bird Infestation: Why Pros Offer a Safer Intervention
A bird infestation is extremely difficult to eradicate using DIY methods. A DIY approach can also expose you to serious health, safety, and legal risks.
Working with a professional ensures safe elimination of menacing birds from your property. Experts implement a humane approach to bird control, focusing on exclusion rather than trapping and killing the defenseless animals.
Because bird invasions can spread fast, it’s prudent to contact technicians at the first sign of trouble. Scheduling regular inspections may also help catch an infestation before it takes root.
Remember to also hire a local bird control company. Nearby exterminators understand the local ecosystem, allowing them to prescribe tailored solutions. Besides, you can schedule inspections and extermination…..all on the same day.