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Signs of a bird infestation

It's not very common to think of birds as pests. However, infestations of certain bird species can be harmful to people and the damage that they cause can become very costly.

Bird nests can cause damage to roofs and eaves, and their droppings are a health hazard that can ruin metal and pavement. They can carry parasites like ticks, fleas, and mites with them that can bite humans and pose a host of health problems. In such cases, bird nest removal is often necessary to protect both property and health. If you notice any of the following signs on your property, then you may have a bird infestation.

What are the signs of a bird infestation?

When birds become problematic, they leave clues that property owners can look out for. Familiarizing yourself with these signs can help you spot an infestation early, allowing you to address it before it causes extensive damage.

Birds on roofs & ledges

Seeing birds perched on your property’s rooflines, ledges, or other high perches can be an early sign of infestation. While occasional birds are common, a regular, concentrated presence signals they may have chosen your building as a base. 

Birds often seek out elevated spots that provide safety from predators and good vantage points. Their consistent roosting may also indicate the availability of food or nesting sites nearby, making your property attractive. Persistent roosting can eventually lead to staining and erosion from droppings and may require bird control solutions to discourage their return.
 

Bird noises

Bird noises are a major indicator of a nearby colony, especially during the early morning and evening hours when birds are most active. Pest birds, including pigeons and starlings, are notably vocal and can create significant noise pollution that disrupts homes and businesses alike. 

Chirping, squawking, and the flapping of wings increase as bird populations grow, often indicating active nesting. 

During breeding seasons, bird noises tend to intensify, which could mean nests are well-established. Addressing these sounds early can help prevent further escalation and the accompanying health and structural concerns.

Nests

Bird nests in gutters, vents, chimneys, or under eaves can create clogs and fire hazards. While it’s natural for birds to seek out these areas, nests on or around your property are one of the clearest signs of a developing infestation, particularly if you spot multiple nests.

Birds such as sparrows and pigeons prefer secluded, sheltered spaces to build their nests, which can clog drainage systems, create fire hazards, and even attract parasites. In addition to potential property damage, nesting material—like twigs, grass, and feathers—can harbor mites and other pests, posing health risks if they spread indoors.

Multiple nests around your property indicate a growing colony and make professional bird’s nest removal advisable to prevent further issues.

Debris

Birds often leave debris, such as feathers, droppings, nesting material, and food remnants, near their roosting and nesting areas. 

This debris not only creates an unsightly buildup but can also block drainage systems and lead to water damage. Accumulated droppings, which are acidic, can corrode metal, stain concrete, and damage other materials. 

Bird debris often attracts insects and poses a slipping hazard, especially around entryways or walkways. Managing this debris with bird control solutions is essential for maintaining a clean and safe property.

Damage

Birds can cause extensive damage to buildings through both their behavior and their droppings. Bird droppings are highly acidic and can wear down materials like stone, metal, and paint. 

Species like pigeons and woodpeckers are known for their destructive habits, pecking at wood and insulation to create nesting spaces or look for insects. Over time, this damage weakens roofing, shingles, and insulation, potentially resulting in costly repairs.

Addressing bird infestations early can help protect structural integrity and avoid recurring damage.

Sightings

Frequent sightings of large groups of birds around your property are a common sign of infestation, especially if you notice them flying or roosting in the same areas. Birds like starlings often move in flocks, and their persistent presence suggests they’re attracted to your property for food, water, or nesting sites.

Regular sightings indicate that your property has become a dependable resource, increasing the chances of nests and roosting sites forming. 

Sightings of larger flocks often mean that preventive measures are necessary to prevent an escalation into a full infestation.

When to call a bird control professional

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to call a bird control professional. Ehrlich Pest Control offers customized bird control solutions designed to safely and effectively manage infestations, such as utilizing bird deterrents, netting, and humane removal methods. 


Bird infestations can escalate quickly, so taking prompt action is essential for minimizing health risks and property damage. Our trained technicians can assess your situation and provide long-term solutions to protect your property and keep birds at bay. Contact us today!

Frequently asked questions

How do I get rid of too many birds?

Start by removing food sources and blocking access to nesting sites. Use visual deterrents like reflective objects or a scarecrow, and consider predator decoys to repel them. High-frequency sound emitters can also deter birds effectively. Professional bird control methods provide long-lasting solutions, tailored to address specific infestations.

Learn more about how to get rid of birds.

How do you get rid of a bird mite infestation?

Bird mites often enter homes from birds nesting nearby. Start by removing nests around your property, as they’re the primary source. Clean affected areas thoroughly, vacuum often, and wash bedding. In severe cases, professional pest control may be necessary to apply effective treatments and prevent mites from returning to their nesting sites.

How to get rid of birds in the yard?

Use bird control methods such as visual deterrents like shiny tape or predator decoys. Removing food sources, like open bird feeders, and securing nesting sites can reduce attraction. High-pitched or high-frequency sound emitters may also help repel birds for a long-lasting effect in larger yards.

Do exterminators get rid of birds?

Yes. Our highly trained pest control professionals specialize in humane bird control methods. We will assess the infestation, apply safe and legal deterrents, and help prevent birds from returning by eliminating food, water, and nesting sites. These long-lasting solutions often include deterrents like spikes, netting, or sound emitters tailored to specific bird species and areas.

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