Preparing for Nesting Season: Proactive Bird Control Measures to Take Now

As warmer weather arrives and spring approaches, the familiar cycle of bird nesting season begins once again. While it might be tempting to address bird issues only after they’ve become a visible problem, waiting until birds have already established nests can lead to costly and complex challenges. Once nests are built, it becomes more difficult to remove them due to legal restrictions and the potential for ongoing bird-related damage. That’s why early planning and implementing a bird control system before nesting begins is crucial. In this blog, we’ll explore the specific challenges posed by nesting season and provide timely information on proactive bird control measures that can be taken now to prevent problems before they start.

The Challenges of Nesting Season

Barn Swallows are one of over 1,000 species of federally protected birds.

Nesting season presents unique challenges due to the federal protection of migratory birds. Implementing bird control systems before nests are established is crucial because, under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918, it is illegal to disturb migratory birds, their nests, or their eggs without a valid permit. Violating this law, which protects over 1,000 bird species, carries serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment. As a result, once birds begin nesting, removing them or interfering with their habitats can become a legal and logistical challenge, emphasizing the importance of proactive bird control measures.

Pigeons have a homing instinct causing them to return to the same location to nest. Once nests have been established, removal becomes more difficult.

In addition to the legal challenges, it becomes increasingly difficult to remove birds once nests have been established. Birds tend to return to properties where they’ve previously nested, making it challenging to prevent them from re-establishing their nests. This can result in a recurring infestation, leading to escalating costs for cleanups, repairs, and additional bird control measures needed to manage the situation.

Steps for Proactive Bird Control

Identification and Cleanup

Proactive bird control begins with identifying areas where birds have previously nested, as these locations are likely to attract them again. Once these areas are identified, it’s essential to remove inactive nests and thoroughly clean the surfaces using a commercial-grade cleaner labeled for bird droppings. This step helps ensure a durable and long-lasting installation of a bird control system, setting the foundation for more effective prevention measures.

Signs of a previous bird problem include inactive nests and nesting material, presence of guano and feathers, and damage to structures.

In addition to previous nesting sites, it’s also important to assess potential weaknesses in infrastructure that could provide ideal nesting spots for birds. Weaknesses in infrastructure that can attract nesting birds include openings in roofs, vents, or eaves, as well as gaps in siding or under roofing materials. Additionally, ledges, beams, or overhangs on buildings can serve as convenient perching and nesting spots. Properly identifying and addressing these vulnerabilities is essential to prevent birds from settling in and causing long-term issues.

Strategizing a Successful Proactive Bird Control Plan

Once these factors are identified and cleanup has been completed, formulating a comprehensive plan to prevent nesting is key. An effective strategy combines traditional exclusion methods—like physical barriers—with sensory deterrents, including sonic devices, gel and liquid aversions, and visual deterrents, such as lasers.

Physical barriers, such as AviShock™ track, are a best practice solution to block birds from landing.

To address infrastructure weaknesses, install physical barriers such as netting, bird spikes, shock track, and bird wire wherever possible. For larger areas or locations where traditional exclusion methods are not feasible, a combination of sonic and ultrasonic deterrents, lasers, and other sensory deterrents is recommended for effective bird deterrence.

Laser deterrents are highly effective at preventing nesting.

When developing a bird management strategy using non-traditional methods, it’s important to first gather detailed information about the property and the bird species involved. Identify the species causing issues, note past problem species, determine where birds are nesting or roosting, assess the number of birds present, and review any previous bird control efforts. This information is critical in determining which deterrents to use, as well as the appropriate quantities needed for a successful plan.

Your Trusted Partner for Proactive Bird Control Solutions

With over 60 years of expertise and a global presence in the bird control industry, we are your go-to partner for developing tailored bird control plans that meet your specific needs. Our team of experts is ready to help you find the best solution. Contact us today at +1 (312) 226-2473 or toll-free at (800) 662-5021.