Birds are an important part of our ecosystem. They can be pets, they are part of the food chain, they are natural predators and they provide joy to plenty of people in Sydney. However, birds can also be a major pest.
Birds in nature are beautiful, but when they infiltrate urban and commercial settings in Sydney, they are a problem. They leave unsightly messes. They damage buildings. They bring diseases. They can cause fatal bird strikes when they collide with vehicles.
However old-school methods like just shooting problem birds are not in line with the modern world. Fortunately, Tom’s Pest Control in Sydney has a range of eco-friendly methods that will protect your property without harming any avian life.
The Impact of Birds on Commercial Properties: Why Bird Control Should Be a Priority
Bird infestations at your Sydney property are more than just an inconvenience. In commercial spaces, they can result in property damage, safety hazards, and health risks. Birds, such as pigeons and seagulls, often roost on rooftops and in other hidden areas, causing:
- Accruing bird droppings, which can damage building materials like roofs and walls.
- Clogged drainage systems from accumulated nests and debris.
- Health risks, including the spread of harmful diseases like histoplasmosis, caused by bird droppings.
In fact, a study by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry highlights that bird-related issues cost Australian businesses millions in maintenance and repairs each year. Therefore, implementing an eco-friendly bird control strategy is essential for the health of your property and your budget.
Understanding Common Bird Species and Their Impact on Your Property
Australia is home to over 700 species of birds. Not all of them are problematic. You are unlikely to have an emu or duck problem at your Sydney property (although we are here to help if you do). Locally in NSW, these are the main species of birds that can cause problems:
- Pigeons: These birds – often called the rats of the air – often roost on ledges and rooftops. Their droppings can corrode building materials and even cause damage to solar panels.
- Seagulls: They will do more than steal a chip. If seagulls locate a food source, they can overrun a business near the ocean in minutes.
- Cockatoos: These large birds are an Aussie icon. But they love to flock in large numbers and can damage roof tiles and electrical wiring with their powerful beaks.
Understanding the specific bird species causing the problem helps in determining the most appropriate eco-friendly solutions. Tailoring bird control strategies to these species ensures better results without causing harm.
The Science Behind Bird Deterrents: How Do They Really Work?
Eco-friendly bird control methods work by using bird behaviour to your advantage. They rely on deterrents that are unpleasant for the birds but cause no harm. Some of the most effective eco-friendly solutions include:
- Visual Deterrents: If birds think there is a predator in the area, they are likely to flea. There are many simple measures that can be installed that mimic the appearance of these predators. Other visual deterrents are items that look threatening to birds, like reflective surfaces.
- Sound Deterrents: There are a number of high-frequency sounds that are inaudible to humans which can be used to drive birds away. These sounds mimic the calls of predators or create an uncomfortable environment for the birds.
- Physical Barriers: Mesh or netting can physically prevent birds from accessing areas without harming them.
Each of these methods works by disrupting the birds’ natural behaviour patterns, creating an environment where they feel unsafe or unable to nest.
How to Prevent Birds from Roosting on Your Property: Simple Yet Effective Tips
Preventing birds from roosting on your property involves taking proactive measures. Here are some simple, yet effective steps you can take to deter birds:
- Install bird spikes: These spikes make life difficult for birds in the places they like to roost, especially in rafters or in car parks. They make it difficult for birds to land on problem spots at your Sydney property, particularly on ledges, windowsills, and rooftops.
- Block potential nesting sites: Seal any gaps or holes in your roof to prevent birds from nesting.
- Use bird netting: Installing bird netting around vulnerable areas can stop birds from gaining access.
By implementing these bird prevention measures early on, you can prevent birds from making a home on your property, saving you from costly damage and clean-up efforts.
The Benefits of Professional Bird Control Services: Why DIY Isn’t Enough
While DIY methods to keep birds away from your Sydney property may seem like a cost-effective solution, professional bird control services offer several advantages:
- Expertise: Professionals from Tom’s Pest Control in Sydney know how to assess the situation and recommend the best, most humane bird control methods.
- Long-term solutions: DIY methods have become very popular. And while they may provide short-term results, professional services ensure that your bird control strategy is sustainable.
- Compliance with local regulations: In some regions, bird control methods are regulated. Professionals from Tom’s Pest Control in Sydney ensure that the methods used comply with these regulations, preventing legal issues.
Professional pest control services from Tom’s Pest Control also deliver ongoing monitoring and maintenance, ensuring that your Sydney property remains bird-free year-round.
The Economic Cost of Bird Infestation: Why You Should Act Fast
Ignoring a bird infestation can be costly. Aside from the direct damage caused by bird droppings and nesting, there are hidden costs, such as:
- Repair and cleaning: Removing nests, cleaning up droppings, and repairing damage can become expensive, especially for large commercial properties.
- Decreased property value: A property infested by birds is often seen as poorly maintained, which can reduce its market value.
Seasonal Bird Control: Adapting Your Strategies to Different Times of Year
You are unlikely to have too many bird problems in winter, although some breeds like seagulls can be year-round persistent pets. Birds are more likely to infest your Sydney property when the sun is shining as they seek shelter.
- Spring and Summer: This is when birds are most likely to breed. Netting and physical barriers work well during this time.
- Autumn and Winter: As birds look for warmth, they may roost in sheltered spots. Consider using sound deterrents or reflective surfaces to keep them away.
Regular inspections and adaptive control measures ensure that your property remains free from birds year-round.
How to Safely Remove Bird Nests from Your Property
Removing bird nests should always be done with caution. Birds are protected in many Sydney council areas. So it’s important to ensure that nest removal doesn’t harm the birds or violate any regulations. Here are steps for safe nest removal:
- Check your local Sydney regulations: Ensure that it is legal to remove the nest in your council region. In some cases, you may need a permit.
- Wear protective gear: Bird droppings can carry diseases, so always wear protective gloves and a safety mask when handling nests.
- Call professionals: If you’re unsure, it’s best to hire pest control professionals who can safely remove nests.
Safe removal prevents further damage and ensures that the birds are not harmed in the process.
How Bird Control Can Enhance Your Property’s Value and Curb Appeal
A property free of bird infestations looks well-maintained and appealing. Effective bird control can:
- Improve the appearance: Clean, bird-free roofs and walls give your property a polished look.
- Increase market value: A well-maintained property with no signs of bird damage is more attractive to potential buyers.
Investing in bird control from Tom’s Pest Control not only saves you money but also improves your property’s appeal.
Eco-friendly bird control solutions from Tom’s Pest Control provide a humane, effective way to protect your property. By understanding the impact of birds, deploying the right deterrents, and seeking professional help from TPC in Sydney when needed, you can keep your property bird-free without harming the environment. Act now to prevent costly damage and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a bird-free space.