Dealing with birds nesting in your walls can be a frustrating and messy experience. These uninvited guests can cause damage to your home, create a lot of noise, and even pose health risks due to droppings and parasites.

How to Get Rid of Birds Living in Walls

This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of how to safely and effectively evict birds from your walls, helping you restore peace and quiet to your home.

Understanding the Problem

Before taking action, it’s essential to understand why birds choose to nest in walls and the potential problems they can create.

We’ll explore common nesting areas, the signs of an infestation, and the risks associated with birds living in your walls.

How To Get Rid Of Birds Living In Walls

Discovering birds nesting or roosting in your walls can be a distressing experience. While these feathered creatures may seem harmless, their presence can lead to a variety of problems, including noise, droppings, and potential damage to your home’s structure. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to evict birds from your walls and prevent them from returning. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps involved in safely and humanely removing birds from your walls.

Identifying the Culprit

The first step in addressing a bird problem is to accurately identify the species involved. Different bird species have different nesting habits and require specific removal techniques. Some common culprits include:

• House Sparrows: These small, brown birds are notorious for nesting in attics and wall cavities.
• Starlings: Larger than sparrows, starlings often roost in large numbers, creating significant noise and mess.
• Pigeons: Pigeons can squeeze through small openings and often nest on ledges or in roof spaces.
• Woodpeckers: While not typically nesting in walls, woodpeckers may excavate holes for nesting or foraging, causing structural damage.

Observing the birds’ behavior, noting their size and appearance, and examining any droppings or nests can help you determine the species. Consulting with a local wildlife control professional can also be beneficial. (See Also: When Is Big Birds Birthday)

Prevention is Key

Once you’ve identified the birds, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent them from returning. This involves sealing up any potential entry points into your home. Common entry points include:

• Vents and Chimneys: Install bird guards or screens over vents and chimneys to prevent birds from entering.
• Roof Gaps and Cracks: Seal any gaps or cracks in your roof with caulk or sealant.
• Damaged Siding or Trim: Repair any damaged siding or trim that could provide an opening for birds.
• Open Windows and Doors: Keep windows and doors closed when not in use, especially during nesting season.

Regularly inspecting your home for potential entry points and promptly addressing any issues can significantly reduce the risk of future bird infestations.

Humane Removal Methods

If birds are already nesting in your walls, it’s important to remove them humanely and in accordance with local laws and regulations. Here are some effective methods:

Exclusion

Exclusion involves blocking off access to the nesting area while allowing the birds to leave naturally. This method is best suited for active nests with young birds. Steps include:

• Identify the Entry Point: Locate the primary entry and exit points used by the birds.
• Install One-Way Doors: Place one-way doors over the entry points. These doors allow birds to exit but prevent them from re-entering.
• Wait for the Birds to Leave: Be patient and allow the birds to vacate the nesting area on their own. This may take several days or weeks.
• Seal the Entry Points: Once the birds have left, permanently seal the entry points to prevent future infestations.

Trapping

Trapping can be an effective method for removing adult birds. It’s important to use humane traps that do not cause harm to the birds. Here’s how to use traps safely:

• Choose the Right Trap: Select a trap that is appropriate for the size and species of the birds you are targeting.
• Bait the Trap: Use birdseed, mealworms, or other attractants to lure the birds into the trap.
• Place the Trap Strategically: Position the trap near the birds’ entry or exit points.
• Check the Trap Regularly: Monitor the trap frequently to prevent birds from becoming trapped for extended periods.
• Release the Birds Humanely: Once captured, release the birds at least a mile away from your home in a safe, natural habitat.

Professional Assistance

If you are dealing with a large infestation or are uncomfortable handling the birds yourself, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife control service. These experts have the experience and equipment to safely and effectively remove birds from your walls. (See Also: How To Communicate With Birds)

Cleaning Up After the Birds

Once the birds have been removed, it’s essential to thoroughly clean the affected area. Bird droppings can contain harmful bacteria and parasites. Follow these steps:

• Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves, a mask, and eye protection to prevent contact with bird droppings.
• Remove Droppings and Nests: Carefully remove all bird droppings and nests from the walls, attic, and any other affected areas.
• Disinfect the Area: Use a disinfectant solution to clean and disinfect all surfaces that have come into contact with bird droppings.
• Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to allow for proper ventilation during and after the cleaning process.

Proper cleaning will help to eliminate any potential health hazards and prevent the return of birds.

Recap

Dealing with birds living in your walls can be a challenging but manageable situation. By understanding the species involved, taking preventive measures, using humane removal techniques, and thoroughly cleaning the affected area, you can effectively evict birds from your home and protect your property from future infestations. Remember to always prioritize the safety and well-being of the birds while addressing the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Get Rid of Birds Living in Walls

What are the signs of birds nesting in my walls?

Some common signs include hearing scratching or chirping noises coming from inside your walls, seeing bird droppings or feathers near entry points, and noticing a musty odor. You might also see birds flying in and out of small holes or gaps in your walls.

How do birds get into walls in the first place?

Birds can find their way into walls through small openings like cracks, gaps around pipes and wires, vents, and damaged siding. They may also exploit existing holes made by other animals. (See Also: What Will Kill Birds)

Is it safe to remove a bird nest from my walls myself?

It’s generally not recommended to remove a bird nest yourself, especially if it contains eggs or young birds. This can be dangerous for both you and the birds, and it may be illegal depending on your location and the species of bird.

What are some humane ways to get rid of birds living in my walls?

Humane methods include sealing up entry points, installing bird deterrents like spikes or netting, and using sound or light repellents. You can also try attracting birds to a different location with bird feeders and birdhouses.

When should I call a professional?

If you’re dealing with a large infestation, a persistent problem, or if you’re concerned about the safety of the birds, it’s best to call a professional wildlife removal service. They have the experience and equipment to safely and humanely remove birds from your walls.