Bird Removal & Control

For many homeowners and businesses, birds can become an unexpected nuisance. Here in the heart of Iowa, we deal with several types of winged creatures—starlings, pigeons, and sparrows to name a few. While they may seem harmless, these airborne nuisances can cause considerable problems, making your life more complicated than it needs to be.

Problems You Could Face

At first glance, the sight of a pigeon perched on your roof might look picture-perfect. However, over time, the accumulation of feathers, droppings, and nests can damage your property and pose a risk to your health. Pigeon droppings, for example, are highly acidic and can corrode various materials, leading to a shortened lifespan for roofs and other outdoor structures. This becomes even more concerning for business owners who might be held responsible for any slip-and-fall accidents caused by animal waste.

Moreover, nests often obstruct essential systems such as your HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems, leading to costly repairs. Starlings are known for their nesting habits, often infiltrating vents and other small openings in your building’s exterior. These nests can be fire hazards, posing a real risk to your safety.

In addition to physical damage, these animals can also be carriers of diseases such as salmonella or even bird flu. Many of these airborne nuisances frequent places where they can pick up and spread bacteria, including garbage dumps and sewer systems. The risk to public health, especially for young children or elderly family members, should not be taken lightly.

Managing Bird Issues

When it comes to dealing with birds, a lot of people might consider taking matters into their own hands. At first, do-it-yourself approaches may seem like a quick fix, but they usually end up being inadequate and sometimes even counterproductive. Setting up traps, using bird spikes, or chemical repellents often requires expert knowledge and specialized equipment. Even if you manage to deter these creatures temporarily, they are surprisingly intelligent and adapt quickly. You might find that the same DIY method that worked last week is ineffective today. Not to mention, improperly set traps or chemical agents can be harmful to both the environment and other wildlife, contravening local laws and regulations.

You might be surprised to know that starlings were introduced in the United States in the late 19th century. In the years that followed, their population grew exponentially, and now they are one of the most abundant bird species in North America. Another intriguing fact is that pigeons possess remarkable navigational abilities, even outperforming humans in some studies. Their unique talents make them not just an ordinary pest, but a highly adaptable one, thus necessitating professional intervention to manage them effectively.

Damage by birds like pigeons, starlings, and sparrows costs American businesses and homeowners millions of dollars annually. They not only harm physical infrastructure but also lead to increased maintenance costs. Cleaning up after these creatures is not a one-time affair; it’s an ongoing commitment that eats into your time and resources.

We understand that no two pest problems are alike. That’s why our experienced team offers customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. We use environmentally friendly methods to not only remove the birds but also to deter future infestations. With our service, you don't just get a temporary solution; you get peace of mind. Our experts are trained in the latest techniques and are knowledgeable about the local regulations in Central Iowa, ensuring you get the best service compliant with all legal requirements.

Pests like pigeons, starlings, and sparrows can turn your haven into a headache. While they may seem harmless, the problems they cause are numerous and impactful. DIY solutions may offer a quick fix, but for long-term results, it's best to rely on professionals like Backwater Wildlife Solutions. With our in-depth understanding of the habits, habitats, and legal landscape surrounding these pests, we offer services that stand the test of time. For an assessment and quote, contact us today, and let Backwater Wildlife Solutions restore the comfort and safety of your home or business.

Frequently Asked Bird Questions 

Q1. Are there specific seasons when these birds are more problematic, and why?

A1. Interestingly, the impact of flying pests like pigeons, starlings, and sparrows is not evenly distributed throughout the year. Their nuisance factor seems to peak during the spring and early summer, which are their prime breeding seasons. During this period, these creatures are actively looking for safe and secluded spots to build their nests and raise their young. Homes and businesses with accessible lofts, ledges, or other sheltered spaces become prime real estate for these creatures. When they settle in, not only do they bring the issues of waste and potential property damage, but they also become more territorial, making removal even more challenging. The increased activity during these months often leads to a surge in calls for professional intervention.

Q2: I've noticed unusual bird songs at dawn and dusk. Are these pests responsible, and is it a sign of an infestation?

A2. The phenomenon you're describing is known as the "dawn chorus," and it's a behavior common to many species, not just the usual suspects like pigeons, sparrows, or starlings. Birdsong is often most noticeable during the early morning and late evening for a variety of ecological and biological reasons. For instance, the cooler air at these times can carry sound further, making their calls more effective.

While not all bird songs emanate from pest species, an increase in bird song—particularly if it's coming from areas like your attic, chimney, or vents—could indeed be a sign of an unwelcome animal presence. They could be communicating for mating or signaling to others about a good nesting spot—your property! So, while the melodies might be sweet, they could also be an auditory clue that it's time to call in the professionals.

Q3: Are birds more attracted to certain colors or types of buildings?

A3. Though it might sound far-fetched, research indicates that the color of a building and even the materials used can attract or repel various species. Lighter colors often reflect more light, which in turn may attract certain types of flying pests. For example, pigeons are known to be attracted to lighter-colored buildings, possibly because these structures are easier to spot from a distance or because they provide better camouflage for the animals.

Similarly, the type of building material can also make a difference. Wooden surfaces, particularly if they are weathered or decaying, can be more attractive for nesting than smooth, hard surfaces like metal or glass. If you find that your property is especially prone to animal nuisances, it may be worth considering whether the color or material of your building is inadvertently rolling out the welcome mat for these unwelcome guests.