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University's Ant Services
Bird Control for your Home and Business

BIRD CONTROL METHODS

A number of methods have been historically used to combat bird infestations. Listed as follows are the general descriptions of these.

Perch Modification.

  • Spiked, Coiled or Barbed Barrier Designs. Coil systems are designed for light to medium bird pressure of pigeons and larger birds. Spike barrier systems range from light to heavy bird pressure of pigeons and larger birds.
  • Pin and Wire Systems. Also designed for light to medium bird pressure of pigeons or larger birds.

Trapping and Poisons.

Pre-baiting with non-lethal corn is used to lure the birds to the feeder and then replaced with a mix of regular and treated corn. The birds digesting the treated corn become ill and act very erratic before dying. These acts frighten other members of the flock causing them to disperse. The Pest Control Company supplying the poison is responsible for the disposal of the dead birds and must be properly licensed to handle the chemicals according to state regulations. On occasion, the public will observe the sick birds and will create adverse publicity. Poisoning as well as trapping is not normally a permanent solution to pigeon infestation since as one flock is dispersed or removed, another flock may move in.

Trapping is normally performed once exclusion has been performed to remove the current flock. It can be an on-going program that requires re-baiting or trapping every month or quarter. Normally the feeding trays are kept out of sight or picked up at night.

Chemical Gels.

The gel irritates the feet of the birds causing enough discomfort for them to abandon the treated area. Gels are not permanent, requiring many re-applications, resulting in a build up of an undesirable base on the structure. The initial cost is less expensive than other products, but the needed frequent re-applications negate these initial savings.

Physical Barriers.

Netting has been effective for excluding pigeons from specific areas. The life of the netting depending on the location, can be up to fifteen years with reasonable maintenance. Netting is not feasible in many areas, and may collect blowing debris and eventually may be penetrated by the birds if the correct species to exclude is not specified. Properly done, netting can be effective, but will require some periodic maintenance.

Acoustical and other "Startle" Effects.

Many devices have been introduced over the years which purport to relocate birds but most work with the "startle effect", or the birds instinctive reaction to a non- standard sight or sound. Unfortunately, once the bird realizes the startle effect does not harm him, he will revert to his habits. Even reproductions of predator sounds may only result in temporary bird dislocation.

Electronic Barrier Systems.

Designed for any and also heavy bird pressure. Similar to systems used for cattle fences, placed onto roosting surfaces have met with considerable success. These systems are more expensive to install but offer the best program for a permanent solution. These systems are also the most humane process of dealing with the birds. Many are equipped with solar charged power units, eliminating the need to have an electrical outlet supplied to the system thus being more cost effective. Maintenance is required only periodically to check the system and for possible cleaning.

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