We don’t usually think of birds as pests, but if you have birds that have flown into your home or are nesting or roosting on your property, they can become a serious problem that requires bird control. Flocks of birds create a hazard with their droppings, damage your roof and siding, and can rob your trees of fruit.
There are three common nuisance birds in Michigan: pigeons, starlings, and house sparrows. Blackbirds, crows, gulls, swallows, and woodpeckers are also known to cause trouble. All these bird species can damage your home and property, whether through destructive nesting habits or social activities (such as woodpeckers drilling).
Signs of a Bird Problem
Birds roosting on the roof, signs, or in the trees does not mean you have a bird problem. When birds start coming into conflict with people, you need a bird control solution. Those conflicts look like:
- Bird Dropping Accumulation
- Nesting Materials in Gutters, Vents, Signs, or Rooftops
- Birds Nesting Inside or along Rooflines, Signs, Gutters.
- Loud, Persistent Noises
- Property Damage
- Foul Odors
Damage from Birds
While birds may seem harmless at first glance, a bird infestation can lead to serious structural, health, and financial problems. Here’s how:
While birds may seem harmless at first glance, a bird infestation can lead to serious structural, health, and financial problems. Here’s how:
- Structural Damage
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- Acidic Droppings: Bird droppings contain uric acid, which corrodes metal, concrete, stone, paint, and roofing materials. Over time, this can weaken building structures and lead to expensive repairs.
- Nesting in Vents and Gutters: Birds often nest in gutters, vents, and chimneys, blocking airflow, causing water backup, and creating fire hazards.
- Roof Damage: Birds can dislodge roofing tiles or shingles while nesting or roosting, allowing moisture to penetrate the structure.
- Solar Panel Interference: Pigeons and other birds nesting under solar panels can cause overheating, reduced efficiency, and costly maintenance.
- Health Hazards
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- Disease Transmission: Birds can carry more than 60 diseases that are transmissible to humans, including histoplasmosis, salmonella, and cryptococcosis.
- Parasites: Bird nests often harbor mites, lice, fleas, and ticks, which can spread to people and pets.
- Contaminated Air: Dried bird droppings can become airborne dust, especially near HVAC intakes, creating respiratory risks.
- Equipment and Utility Damage
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- HVAC Systems: Birds nesting in or near air conditioning units or exhaust fans can clog filters and vents, reduce efficiency, and cause equipment failure.
- Electrical Hazards: Birds pecking at wires or nesting near transformers can cause shorts, fires, or power outages.
- Property Aesthetics and Value
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- Foul Odors and Unsightly Messes: Large amounts of droppings and debris smell bad and leave a poor impression on visitors or customers.
- Stained Siding and Windows: Droppings and nesting materials can stain or damage exterior finishes, diminishing curb appeal.
- Noise Pollution: Persistent chirping, squawking, or fluttering can disturb occupants and affect quality of life.
Bird Control Services in Ann Arbor
Trying to control Ann Arbor bird populations can be hard. Their ability to fly and create high nesting areas can make it hard for you to access or catch them. The best way to keep birds away is to make their landing places uncomfortable—a combination of bird deterrents, bird spikes, and bird repellents can be effective.
Both bird-deterrent methods and bird-proofing can make for a proven bird-control plan. Critter Control in Ann Arbor will work closely with you to complete successful and humane bird control and take back your property and business from birds. Call our office today or request an estimate below!