Birds are usually regarded as beautiful creatures. However, they can also carry disease and destroy property. While not all birds pose a problem, here is some information about their dangers and how to prevent avian pests in your area:
Pigeons
Pigeons are urban birds. They are largely dependent on humans for food and nourishment, nesting areas, and roosting places. These birds are often found around homes, bridges, schools, parks, buildings, and other city structures.
Pigeons are sometimes called “flying rats” because of the filth and bacteria they can carry. They are known transmitters of diseases like:
- Salmonella
- Cryptococcosis
- Toxoplasmosis
They can also contribute to food poisoning. Additionally, pigeon nests can cause structural damage and fire hazards. Their droppings are unsightly, and damage vehicle paint. Pigeons can also carry other pests like ticks, lice, and fleas.
Starlings
Starlings are dark-coloured birds with speckles on their feathers. They travel in flocks and can often be found amassed among trees. They can also be spotted on clogged gutters, where they access drinking water.
Starlings prefer to feed on larvae and other grubs, but they can also eat fruit, seeds, trash, and spilled food.
Like many pest birds, starling droppings can fall on car windshields and home or office windows. They can also cause erosion to building structures. The damage they cause can be significantly greater when they roost as a flock. Their droppings also contaminate soil, possibly leading to the spread of histoplasmosis.
House Sparrows
House sparrows weigh less than one ounce, but they are not harmless. These small birds can be aggressive, and their incessant chirping can be annoying.
Sparrows are especially difficult to get rid of, and can seriously harm gardens and drive away songbirds you enjoy. They can contaminate livestock feed and might spread West Nile virus. Sparrow droppings may deface cars and other structures.
How to Keep Bird Pests off Your Property
- Keep trash bins covered
- Immediately clean any food spills or crumbs on outdoor decks and patios
- Eliminate standing water from your property. Standing water attracts pests of all kinds.
- Prune and maintain trees and other plants.
- Add sticky glue or spikes to ledges where bird pests might roost.
- Never feed these birds.
- Have an animal and pest control company remove nests from your property.
When birds are interfering with your enjoyment of your yard, or they’ve made their way into your attic, call a professional pest control company to assist you. Pro-Pest Corporation offers pest removal and pest prevention services in Toronto and surrounding areas.
