5 Common Problems Caused by Birds

Have you noticed birds nesting in your roof, leaving droppings on your property, or even damaging your building? If so, you’re not alone. Many property owners struggle with bird-related issues, often without realising the extent of the damage these feathered intruders can cause.

They may seem harmless, but birds can cause significant damage to property, pose health risks, and create safety hazards. In this article, we’ll explore five of the most common problems caused by birds and how to address them.

1. Property Damage

Why It’s a Problem

Birds can cause substantial damage to buildings, vehicles, and other structures. Their droppings contain acidic properties that can erode paint, metal, and stone over time. Additionally, birds may peck at roofing materials, nest in gutters, and clog drainage systems, leading to costly repairs.

How to Prevent It

• Bird Proofing: Installing netting, spikes, or wires can prevent birds from perching and nesting on buildings.
• Regular Maintenance: Keeping gutters clean and repairing small damages promptly can reduce long-term costs.
• Falconry Response: Using trained birds of prey to deter problem species can be an effective solution.

For more effective ways to deter birds, check out our guide on how to keep birds away.

2. Health Risks

Why It’s a Problem

Birds can carry diseases that pose risks to humans. Pigeons, starlings, and seagulls are known carriers of pathogens such as salmonella, E. coli, and histoplasmosis. Their droppings can also become airborne, leading to respiratory issues.

How to Prevent It

• Cleaning and Sanitation: Regularly removing bird droppings from surfaces minimises exposure to harmful bacteria.
• Population Control: Reducing the number of roosting birds in urban areas lowers the risk of disease transmission.
• Professional Bird Control: Hiring experts to assess and implement control measures ensures long-term protection. We can help! Get in touch. 
  

3. Noise Pollution

Why It’s a Problem

Birds, especially in large flocks, can be incredibly noisy. Constant chirping, squawking, and cooing can disrupt sleep, concentration, and overall quality of life, particularly in residential or commercial areas.

How to Prevent It

• Sound Deterrents: Ultrasonic devices or distress call recordings can discourage birds from settling in certain areas.
• Habitat Modification: Removing food sources and potential nesting sites can make the environment less appealing to birds.
• Professional Assessment: Bird control experts can recommend tailored solutions for persistent noise issues.

4. Safety Hazards

Why It’s a Problem

Birds can create safety hazards in several ways. Nesting materials and droppings on pavements or stairways can become slippery, increasing the risk of falls. Birds near airports also pose a serious threat to aviation safety, with bird strikes causing damage to aircraft.

How to Prevent It

• Slip Prevention: Regular cleaning of walkways reduces the likelihood of accidents.
• Airport Bird Management: Falconry and laser bird control help keep birds away from runways.
• Structural Modifications: Installing deterrents like sloped ledges or bird spikes discourages roosting in high-risk areas.

5. Nesting Issues

Why It’s a Problem

Birds often nest in inconvenient or hazardous locations, such as chimneys, vents, or inside roofs. This can lead to blockages, fire hazards, and increased maintenance costs. Additionally, some birds become aggressive when protecting their nests, posing a threat to people nearby.

How to Prevent It

• Removing Old Nests: If legally permitted, removing nests before birds return can prevent repeat nesting.
• Sealing Entry Points: Covering gaps and openings stops birds from accessing sheltered nesting sites.
• Using Bird-Friendly Deterrents: Non-lethal methods such as bird gels or decoys can discourage nesting in problem areas.

Integrated Bird Management: Professional Bird Control Solutions

Who We Are

Integrated Bird Management (IBM) specialises in sustainable and humane bird control solutions for commercial and industrial properties.

Our Services

Need Expert Bird Control Solutions?

If you’re dealing with bird-related issues on your property, our team at Integrated Bird Management is here to help. Contact us today for expert guidance on sustainable bird control solutions. Our team is always happy to answer any questions you may have or arrange a site assessment. 

Integrated Bird Management offers the AVIX Autonomic Mark II, an advanced laser bird deterrent that provides continuous, automated protection against nuisance birds. Birds see the laser as a physical threat and immediately leave the area, making this a highly effective and humane solution.

Unlike traditional methods, the AVIX Autonomic is silent, preventing noise disturbances, and birds do not become accustomed to it, ensuring long-term success. With low maintenance requirements, the system operates efficiently with only a laser bulb replacement every 3-5 years.