How To Get Rid Of Birds

If a home or business owner wants to try removing birds themselves, the approach must be strategic, legal, and safe—because some birds are protected by federal and state laws (like pigeons, starlings, or sparrows). The goal is usually exclusion and deterrence rather than harming the birds. Here is a step by step approach to getting rid of unwanted birds:

Identify the Species

Knowing which bird you are dealing with is critical:

Pigeons – Common in urban areas; can nest on ledges, roofs, or under eaves.
Sparrows/House Finches – Often nest near vents or small openings.
Starlings – Aggressive colonizers; often use soffits or attics.
Seagulls or larger birds – Require more robust deterrents.

Some species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to kill or remove nests with eggs or chicks without permits.

Remove Food and Water Sources

Birds will stay where food and water are abundant:

Secure garbage in sealed containers.
Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outside.
Clean up fallen fruit or seeds.
Ensure water sources like fountains are drained or covered if not in use.

Bird Exclusion Methods

Exclusion is the most effective DIY approach:

Netting: Install bird netting over areas like patios, roof overhangs, or vents. This keeps birds from entering or roosting in large open spaces.
Spikes: Metal or plastic bird spikes prevent birds from perching on ledges, gutters, or signs. These are non-lethal and very effective for pigeons.
Wire or Line Systems (Bird Wire): Thin stainless steel wires mounted above ledges prevent landing without being visually intrusive.
Mesh Screens & Vent Covers: Close off vents, chimneys, or attic openings where birds may enter.

Visual and Audio Deterrents

These work best when birds are first learning an area is unsafe:

Reflective objects: Mylar tape, CDs, or reflective balloons can scare birds.
Decoys: Fake owls or hawks can deter smaller birds temporarily.
Sound deterrents: Devices emitting predator calls or distress signals; effectiveness varies and birds can become habituated.

Chemical Repellents

Some gel or spray repellents make surfaces sticky or uncomfortable.
Only use bird-safe, non-toxic products.
Apply to ledges, beams, or roosting areas, not where food is stored.

Nest Removal

Remove nests in late fall or winter when birds are not active.
Never remove nests with eggs or chicks without proper permits—this is illegal in many areas.
Clean the area thoroughly to remove droppings, which can carry disease.

Prevent Re-Infestation

Regularly inspect ledges, vents, and roofs for new nesting attempts.
Reapply deterrents seasonally.
Trim nearby trees that give easy access to roofs or ledges.

Important Considerations

DIY methods are effective for small or moderate infestations, but birds are persistent, intelligent, and generally protected by law.
Large infestations, roof or attic colonies, or aggressive species (like starlings or pigeons in commercial settings) usually require professional intervention.
Safety: Bird droppings carry diseases (histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis), so wear gloves, masks, and avoid direct contact.

The Best Way To Get Rid Of Birds

Our professional pest control services are widely recognized as the most effective and reliable way to eliminate bird infestations from homes and businesses. Here’s why hiring our professionals is the superior approach:

Expertise and Experience: Our bird control specialists have extensive knowledge of avian behavior, nesting patterns, and species-specific habits. We can quickly identify the type of bird, assess the scale of the infestation, and determine the most effective control strategy. Unlike DIY methods, our professional pest controllers understand which deterrents and exclusion techniques will work for each species, minimizing wasted effort and reducing the risk of prolonged infestations.
Safe, Legal, and Humane Removal: Many birds, including pigeons, starlings, and certain migratory species, are protected under federal and state laws. Our professionals are fully trained to comply with these regulations. We remove birds and nests safely and humanely, avoiding illegal actions such as killing protected species or destroying nests with eggs or chicks. This ensures that property owners stay compliant while resolving the problem effectively.
Comprehensive Exclusion Solutions: Our professional services go beyond temporary deterrents. We install long-term exclusion systems designed to keep birds from returning, such as bird netting over attics, roofs, and outdoor structures, anti-roosting spikes and wires on ledges and gutters, and vent, chimney, and soffit covers to prevent re-entry. These methods are tailored to each property’s structure and the bird species involved, providing a permanent solution rather than repeated temporary fixes.
Advanced Deterrents and Treatments: Our professionals have access to tools and technologies not typically available to the general public, such as ultrasonic or audio devices designed to deter specific species, specialized, bird-safe repellents and gels that prevent perching without harming wildlife, and precision cleaning and sanitization techniques to safely remove droppings, which carry bacteria and disease. This comprehensive approach ensures not only removal but also the elimination of health hazards associated with bird infestations.
Time, Cost, and Stress Savings: DIY bird control can be time-consuming, expensive, and often ineffective. Our professionals assess the problem, implement the solution efficiently, and prevent future issues, saving property owners both time and money. Additionally, we reduce stress by handling dangerous heights, complex structures, and persistent birds that might otherwise return repeatedly.
Preventive Maintenance: Our professional bird control services don’t just remove existing birds—we also provide preventive guidance and monitoring, significantly reducing the likelihood of future infestations. This includes inspections, deterrent installations, and ongoing maintenance strategies.

Hiring our professional pest control services is the best way to get rid of birds because it ensures a safe, legal, and effective solution. Our professionals offer expertise, durable exclusion methods, health and safety protection, and long-term prevention that far exceeds the effectiveness of DIY methods.