Discovering birds in your attic can be a frustrating and unsettling experience, especially if you’re unsure of how to safely and humanely remove them. Not only can birds cause significant damage to your home’s insulation, wiring, and structure, but they can also leave behind unsanitary droppings that can spread diseases. Furthermore, birds in the attic can be a noise disturbance, disrupting your daily life and peace of mind. It’s essential to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and potential health risks.
Overview of the Problem
Birds often seek shelter in attics due to their warmth, dryness, and protection from predators. However, their presence can lead to a range of issues, including:
Droppings and Debris
Bird droppings can contaminate insulation, causing it to lose its effectiveness and requiring costly replacement. Additionally, droppings can harbor diseases like histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis, posing a risk to human health.
Property Damage
Birds can peck and scratch at roofing materials, vents, and other structures, leading to costly repairs and potentially causing water damage. They may also chew on electrical wires, creating a fire hazard.
Noise and Disruption
The noise and commotion caused by birds in the attic can be a significant disturbance, disrupting daily life and affecting your overall well-being.
In this article, we’ll explore who to call for birds in the attic, providing you with the necessary guidance to safely and effectively remove them and prevent future infestations.
Who to Call for Birds in Attic: A Comprehensive Guide
Having birds in your attic can be a frustrating and potentially damaging experience. Not only can they cause noise and mess, but they can also lead to health hazards and property damage. If you’re dealing with birds in your attic, it’s essential to know who to call for help. In this article, we’ll explore the different options available to you, including wildlife removal services, pest control companies, and DIY solutions.
Wildlife Removal Services
Wildlife removal services specialize in humanely removing birds and other wildlife from homes and buildings. These professionals have the training, equipment, and expertise to safely and effectively remove birds from your attic. Here are some benefits of hiring a wildlife removal service:
- Humane removal: Wildlife removal services use humane methods to remove birds, ensuring that they are not harmed during the process.
- Expertise: These professionals have extensive knowledge of bird behavior and can identify the species, locate the entry points, and remove the birds efficiently.
- Equipment and safety gear: Wildlife removal services have the necessary equipment and safety gear to navigate attics and remove birds safely.
- Cleanup and sanitizing: Many wildlife removal services offer cleanup and sanitizing services to remove bird droppings, nests, and debris from your attic.
- Exclusion and prevention: Wildlife removal services can also seal entry points and install deterrents to prevent future bird infestations.
When searching for a wildlife removal service, look for companies that are: (See Also: How Much Water Do Birds Drink)
- Licensed and insured
- Members of professional associations, such as the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA)
- Have positive online reviews and ratings
- Offer a free inspection and quote
Pest Control Companies
Pest control companies may also offer bird removal services, although their primary focus is on controlling pests like insects and rodents. Here are some pros and cons of hiring a pest control company:
Pros:
- Convenience: Pest control companies often offer a range of services, including bird removal, making it a one-stop solution.
- Familiarity with local regulations: Pest control companies are familiar with local regulations and can ensure that bird removal is done in compliance with these regulations.
Cons:
- Lack of expertise: Pest control companies may not have the same level of expertise in wildlife removal as specialized wildlife removal services.
- Inhumane methods: Some pest control companies may use inhumane methods to remove birds, such as poison baits or glue traps.
When considering a pest control company, ask about their experience with bird removal, their methods, and their licenses and certifications.
DIY Solutions
While it’s not recommended to attempt to remove birds from your attic yourself, some homeowners may choose to do so. Here are some DIY solutions:
Visual deterrents: Visual deterrents, such as shiny reflective surfaces, balloons, or predator decoys, can be used to scare birds away from your attic.
Exclusion methods: Exclusion methods, such as sealing entry points or using netting, can be used to prevent birds from entering your attic.
Trapping: Trapping birds using live traps or exclusion traps can be an effective DIY solution. However, it’s essential to check local regulations regarding trapping and to handle birds humanely. (See Also: Why Do Birds Preen Their Feathers)
However, DIY solutions can be risky and may not be effective in the long run. Here are some reasons why:
- Lack of expertise: Without proper training and experience, homeowners may not be able to identify the species, locate the entry points, or remove the birds safely.
- Health risks: Bird droppings can pose serious health risks, and improper handling can lead to the spread of diseases.
- Property damage: Improper removal methods can lead to further property damage, such as torn insulation or damaged ductwork.
Prevention is Key
Preventing birds from entering your attic in the first place is the most effective way to avoid the hassle and expense of removal. Here are some prevention tips:
- Seal entry points: Regularly inspect your home’s exterior and seal any gaps or holes that could serve as entry points for birds.
- Install bird-deterrent systems: Consider installing bird-deterrent systems, such as netting or bird spikes, to prevent birds from landing on your roof or in your attic.
- Keep your attic clean: Regularly clean your attic to remove debris and food sources that may attract birds.
- Trim trees and shrubs: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce the likelihood of birds nesting in them and flying into your attic.
Conclusion
Having birds in your attic can be a frustrating experience, but knowing who to call for help can make all the difference. Wildlife removal services offer humane and effective solutions, while pest control companies may provide a convenient but potentially less effective option. DIY solutions can be risky and may not be effective in the long run. Prevention is key, and by taking steps to prevent birds from entering your attic, you can avoid the hassle and expense of removal.
Remember to always:
- Hire a licensed and insured wildlife removal service or pest control company
- Check online reviews and ratings before hiring a service
- Ask about the company’s experience with bird removal and their methods
- Take steps to prevent birds from entering your attic in the first place
By following these tips, you can effectively remove birds from your attic and prevent future infestations.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Removal Service | Humane removal, expertise, equipment, and safety gear, cleanup and sanitizing, exclusion and prevention | Cost, may not be available in all areas |
| Pest Control Company | Convenience, familiarity with local regulations | Lack of expertise, inhumane methods, may not be effective |
| DIY Solutions | Cost-effective, can be a quick fix | Lack of expertise, health risks, property damage, may not be effective |
Recap:
In this article, we discussed the different options available for removing birds from your attic, including wildlife removal services, pest control companies, and DIY solutions. We also explored the benefits and drawbacks of each option and provided prevention tips to avoid future infestations. Remember to always prioritize humane removal methods and consider hiring a licensed and insured wildlife removal service or pest control company for effective and safe removal. (See Also: What Birds Produce Milk)
Frequently Asked Questions: Who to Call for Birds in Attic
What are the signs that I have birds in my attic?
If you notice bird droppings, nesting materials, or hear chirping, fluttering, or scratching sounds coming from your attic, it’s likely that you have birds taking up residence. You may also see birds flying in and out of your vents or chimneys.
Why should I remove birds from my attic?
Birds in your attic can cause significant damage to your home’s structure, insulation, and electrical systems. They can also leave behind droppings that can spread disease and create unpleasant odors. Additionally, birds can attract other pests, such as insects and rodents, which can further exacerbate the problem.
Can I remove the birds myself?
While it may be tempting to try to remove the birds yourself, it’s not recommended. Birds can be protective of their young and may become aggressive if they feel threatened. Additionally, removing birds and their nests can be a complex process that requires specialized equipment and knowledge to avoid causing further damage to your home.
Who should I call to remove birds from my attic?
You should call a licensed and experienced wildlife removal professional who specializes in bird removal. They will have the necessary equipment, expertise, and safety precautions to humanely remove the birds and prevent future infestations.
How can I prevent birds from returning to my attic?
To prevent birds from returning to your attic, you should seal all entry points, including vents, chimneys, and holes in your roof or walls. You should also consider installing bird-deterrent systems, such as netting or bird spikes, and keeping your attic clean and free of debris. Regularly inspecting your attic and addressing any issues promptly can also help prevent future infestations.
