Birds are a common sight, and many of us enjoy listening to their chirping and watching them flying overhead. However, as much as we appreciate their beauty, they can be a source of unseen dangers that can adversely impact our health and cause property damage. Infestations can be detrimental to a building, the ecosystem, and our well-being. Without proper intervention and humane bird control services, the risks can escalate.

Therefore, it is crucial to know how to get rid of birds, especially if you suspect that your property is at risk. In this article, our experts at Skedaddle will explore the potential risks of infestations, ways to detect and deal with them, and most importantly, the importance of swift and effective bird removal in Vaughan to ensure the safety and health of individuals and the community at large.

How Birds Can Cause Costly Damage to Your Home and Property 

While birds contribute significantly to our environment, they can be troublesome when they invade our spaces, particularly residential or commercial properties. The damage inflicted by these feathered animals goes beyond unsightly droppings or harmlessly pecked areas. 

Structural Damage

Birds, especially larger ones, can cause substantial physical damage to your property. They build nests in gutters, vents, or corners of your roof that often lead to blockages and can cause severe water infiltration issues. Woodpeckers can also drill holes into the exterior of your property, compromising its structural integrity over time. 

The Nesting Dilemma 

The construction of nests poses a deceptive threat. Nesting materials can quickly become fire hazards as these are often composed of twigs, leaves, and other flammable substances. More so, some are known to build nests in chimneys, vent pipes or near outdoor electrical fixtures, increasing the risk of fire outbreaks. 

Wear and Tear from Droppings 

The acidic content of droppings can corrode and stain building materials, including metal, paint, wood, and concrete. Over time, persistent exposure to droppings can accelerate the wear and tear on your property, leading to expensive repairs and even structural failures. 

Landscape Damage 

These animals don’t just affect your buildings, they can also ruin your landscaping. Many species, such as pigeons, sparrows and starlings, consume vast amounts of seeds and plants, causing severe damage to gardens and lawns. 

The potential for them to cause costly damage to your property is significant. It is recommended to take preventative measures and seek professional assistance if an infestation is suspected.

The Threat of Droppings: Health Risks You Should Know 

Their droppings, despite seeming relatively harmless, can pose significant health risks. This is due to numerous diseases known to be present in droppings, including ones that can be lethal to those with weakened immune systems. Here are some diseases that you should be mindful of: 

• Salmonellosis: This bacterial infection can be traced back to droppings that have dried and been scattered in the air. If inhaled or ingested, the bacteria could potentially infect humans leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
• Histoplasmosis: Caused by a fungus that thrives in environments rich in droppings like pigeon roosts, the onset of this disease can trigger symptoms akin to pneumonia, due to its ability to affect the lungs once spores are inhaled.
• Cryptococcosis: This life-threatening fungal infection thrives particularly in pigeon droppings. It primarily afflicts individuals with compromised immune systems and can cause fever, fatigue, and lung infection.

And it’s not just the droppings. Birds can also carry ectoparasites, such as mites, ticks, or fleas, which can invade homes and buildings. These pests can bite humans and pets, causing a range of health problems, from simple itching to severe allergic reactions. 

Given the considerable health risks associated with droppings and the animals themselves, it’s crucial to handle an infestation swiftly and professionally. Amateur efforts can inadvertently cause dispersal of the droppings, leading to possible contamination and adhesion of disease-causing spores in the indoor environment. Using professional services like those provided by Skedaddle can ensure that the removal process is safe, efficient, and humane.

Signs of an Infestation: Identifying the Problem Early 

Recognizing the signs of a bird infestation can spare you time, money and prevent potential health risks. They are often drawn to properties that offer shelter, food and water, so your home could be at threat if it provides any of these incentives. So, what are the signs that you should be looking for?  

• Frequent Presence: You may overlook the significance of them frequently visiting your property. However, it can be the first sign of an impending problem. Regular spots tend to be rooflines, ledges, or around doors and windows.
• Noises: Sounds should not be disregarded, particularly if they are coming from hard-to-reach or unseen areas like attic spaces, vents, or loft areas. They often indicate the presence of these animals nesting.
• Nests: They can build a nest within days. You might spot their nesting material or the nests themselves. They can be built in various places, such as lofts, vents, on window ledges or even in trees in your garden.
• Droppings: They defecate multiple times a day, so you will likely observe a large accumulation of droppings in areas where they frequently perch.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s highly recommended to get professional assistance rather than trying to handle the situation yourself. Birds and their nests, are often protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and other provincial and federal laws, meaning that improper intervention could lead to legal consequences. 

Humane Bird Removal in Vaughan with Skedaddle 

Successfully managing an infestation requires a well-planned, safe, and humane approach. At Skedaddle, our professional team is trained to handle wildlife management responsibly. We comply with all legal guidelines for removal and use humane techniques to avoid causing harm to them or their nests. 

Our process begins with a comprehensive assessment of the situation, including locating nests and identifying the species involved. We use this assessment to tailor an effective and safe removal process for your property. During this process, our team will also clean any associated hazards, such as droppings or nesting material, and we’ll provide advice on how to make your property less attractive in the future to prevent a recurrence of the problem. 

Remember, the aim is not just to get rid of them, but to do so in a manner that promotes safety, health, and respect for our natural wildlife. So, if you’re dealing with a bird problem in Vaughan, consider partnering with Skedaddle, where we prioritize ethical wildlife management alongside customer satisfaction.

Taking Control of Your Wildlife Problems Today 

Now that you have an understanding of the hidden dangers that these winged animals can present, it’s time to take action. Ignoring these issues will only allow them to escalate, endangering both your property and health. Partnering with experts like Skedaddle provides a safe and humane solution for infestation. You’ll not only protect your home but also contribute to the ethical treatment of wildlife. So don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Skedaddle today to schedule an assessment of your property.