Nuisance Bird Control

Pigeon Control

Pigeons are year-round pests commonly found in urban and rural areas. They nest on buildings and feed on grain, scraps, and manure. Their droppings deface property, clog gutters, and create slip hazards—posing health risks and driving the need for control.

• Size: 11 in., 13 oz.
• Nesting: 1–2 eggs, multiple broods
• Peak breeding: Spring and summer
• Activity: Year-round
• Diet: Seeds, grain, food waste, manure

Why Pigeon Control Matters

Pigeon droppings damage buildings and contaminate food and feed supplies. They are known carriers of diseases like histoplasmosis and salmonella, and can harbor mites and other parasites that affect people.

Starling Control

Starlings are invasive, year-round pests that thrive in both urban and suburban areas. They frequently nest in vents, soffits, and signs, causing damage and health concerns. Known for forming large flocks, starlings leave behind droppings, noise, and contamination.

• Size: 7.5–8.5 in., 2.5–3.5 oz.
• Nesting: 2–8 eggs (typically 4–6), two broods per year
• Peak breeding: Spring and summer
• Activity: Year-round
• Diet: Insects, fruit, seeds, grain, food scraps, livestock feed

Why Starling Control Matters

Starling droppings corrode surfaces and create slip hazards. Their nests can block vents, increasing fire and moisture risks. Large flocks spread diseases like histoplasmosis, damage crops, and contaminate feed supplies.

Sparrow Control

House sparrows are small, invasive birds that thrive around homes, farms, and commercial buildings. They often nest in vents, rafters, and signs, leaving behind waste and structural damage. Their ability to adapt to human environments makes them difficult to control.

• Size: 5–6 in., approximately 1 oz.
• Nesting: 3–9 eggs (usually 5–6), up to 5 broods per year
• Peak breeding: March through August
• Activity: Year-round
• Diet: Seeds, grain, insects, fruit, food scraps, livestock feed

Why Sparrow Control Matters

Sparrow nests and droppings can damage insulation, clog vents, and even trigger electrical fires. They contaminate food and feed supplies, carry parasites, and are known to spread dozens of diseases, including salmonellosis and encephalitis.

Sanitation & Habitat Modification for Bird Control

Reducing access to food, shelter, and nesting materials is a key step in controlling nuisance birds like pigeons, starlings, and sparrows.

While not always a complete solution, effective sanitation and habitat changes can greatly reduce bird activity.

Bird Exclusion: The Most Effective Long-Term Solution

The most reliable way to stop nuisance birds from nesting or roosting on structures is to exclude them entirely. While not always a simple process, bird-proofing buildings help prevent recurring issues.

Bird Repellents, Deterrents, & Barriers

Physical barriers are among the most effective long-term solutions for keeping nuisance birds like pigeons from perching or nesting on buildings.

Common deterrent options include:

• Bird spikes: Wire, plastic, or metal prongs installed on ledges, windowsills, beams, and rafters to prevent landing. Wide surfaces may require multiple rows.
• Tensioned wire systems: Thin wires stretched at varied heights to block perching on ledges, pipes, or beams.
• Shock track systems: Electrified strips emit a harmless but unpleasant shock to deter birds. These are highly effective but require maintenance to avoid shorting from debris or dirt.

Pigeon Trapping Techniques:

• Bob-type walk-in traps are the most effective, using swing doors that allow pigeons to enter but not exit.
• Pre-baiting with grain (like corn or wheat) helps build trust before active trapping begins.
• Live decoy pigeons can improve success—just ensure food and water are provided.
• Traps must be checked frequently, and captured birds should never be released, as pigeons will return due to their homing instinct.