4 Signs that Show You have a Bird Problem

When architects, facilities managers, surveyors and business managers consider pest control, they’re more likely to think of pests that cause the most financial damage, such as rodents, flies and stored product insects (SPIs) – rarely birds. But anything that signifies poor sanitation, disrepair and neglect will never be good for a business and this is where some bird pests can cause significant harm.

The majority of birds co-exist harmoniously with humans, contributing beauty to our landscape as well as being critical pollinators of plants and seeds. Most species of birds also aid in insect control. Some species however give birds a bad name in the pest control world. Black birds and pigeons, for example, which thrive in urban and industrial areas, can have significant negative impacts on businesses and households. They can spread diseases, damage property, cause secondary pest infestations, create safety risks, behave aggressively towards staff and customers and give the public a bad impression of your organisation.

Bird pests in particular can be a problem to control because they can reach parts of buildings that are difficult to access. They exhibit a wide range of smart behaviours and can adapt to new environments and conditions quickly. Understanding that the majority of bird species can thrive in harmony with us, it is important to consult a professional pest control provider when faced with a bird pest problem.

How to recognise a bird infestation

Proactive pest management is the key to successful bird control, but what signs of a bird infestation should you look out for? A bird infestation is fairly easy to recognise when you consider the five following clues.

1. Visual signs of a bird infestation

Have you noticed birds settling on roofs and ledges of your premises? Larger birds can dislodge roof tiles – a clear danger for anyone or anything that happens to be directly below. Other than being unattractive, bird droppings (guano) can lead to several problems on and around buildings. Guano can corrode stone, metal, paintwork and various building materials, resulting in potential structural weaknesses on roofs and other supporting structures. On paved areas, guano can cause a slip-and-fall risk for staff and visitors. It can also spoil raw materials and finished goods, causing financial loss.

Are there signs of feathers? Feathers, primarily from dead birds, can play host to a range of parasites, bacteria and viruses. Birds also carry ectoparasites such as fleas, ticks, lice and mites that can contain infectious pathogens that pose health concerns.

2. Can you hear birds?

Whether they’re defending their territories or trying to attract a mate, bird sounds around your building could be an indication of a bird infestation.

3. Stock check

Birds are a particularly concerning problem for food businesses where food safety is paramount. It makes sense to carefully check your stock routinely for any signs of damage. Packaged goods can be damaged by birds pecking at them to access the food or from droppings fouling the packaging.

A bird infestation can also compromise food safety standards and regulations by causing hygiene and contamination problems leading to failed audits and damaged reputations. With health regulations stricter than ever, ensuring your pest control plan involves bird pest prevention – is essential.

4. Have you noticed blocked drainage?

Feathers and nest materials can clog up guttering and drainage systems. A serious drainage issue in a restaurant, for example, could lead to a large repair bill, force the restaurant to close its doors to customers and suffer from negative press or bad online reviews.

Additionally, blocked roof drainage systems and collected water can become breeding sites for mosquitoes while flooding on roofs can lead to internal leaks, rotten timber, metal corrosion, damaged plaster and other wall coverings and flooring inside your premises.

What type of bird control is right for your business?

As previously mentioned, birds exhibit a wide range of smart behaviours. Sometimes, when birds realise that a certain deterrent carries no real threat, they can rapidly become habituated to it. Without professional help, this could render some deterrents useless.

By investing in ongoing professional bird management, businesses will not only save money but ensure their premises are protected throughout the year. Rentokil Initial uses its extensive, global knowledge of bird control to tailor solutions and provide bird control that protects your business now and in the future.

Our bird consultants and expert technicians use their knowledge of bird biology, behaviour and local laws for control to produce strategies for long-term pest prevention. We provide humane, fast, effective, discreet and targeted solutions to protect any business, 24/7. Our solutions are sustainable – focusing on humane and environmentally friendly deterrents that can safeguard your business while helping to protect the environment.

Think you have a bird problem? Get in touch!

Call us on 5999 724 3011 or contact us online and we’ll contact you within 24 hours to book a free consult.