Bird Facts & Information

Protect your home or business from birds by learning techniques for identification and control.

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Bird Treatment

How do you get rid of birds?

How Do You Get Rid of Birds?

To get rid of birds, there are a combination of deterrents you can use such as bird spikes, netting, and reflective objects like aluminum foil and scare balloons to help make the area less inviting. You can also try playing loud, distressing sounds, or using ultrasonic devices. Additionally, make sure to remove food sources like trash or uncovered pet food and limit water access.

How to Get Birds Out of the Chimney

To get birds out of a chimney, first, check for an open damper or flue and gently encourage the birds to fly out using a flashlight or by creating a draft. You can also install a chimney cap to prevent future bird entries and block any potential nesting sites.

How to Get a Bird Out of Your Attic

If you need to get a bird out of your attic, first ensure that the bird has a clear escape route by opening windows or vents if possible. Then using a soft cloth or towel, gently guide the bird toward the exit, avoiding direct contact.

Bird Trapping

Various types of bird traps can be used to humanely capture birds and remove them from your home. Some of these traps include cage traps, net traps, and walk-in traps. Before using any traps on birds, make sure to check up on local regulations, as many species are protected by wildlife conservation laws.

What Orkin Does?

Contact Orkin to safely remove birds from your property. Orkin Pros are designed to deal with pests in your yard or home and will design a custom wildlife management program for bird removal specifically for your situation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Behavior, Diet & Habits

Understanding Birds

Pest Birds

Pest birds are birds that can cause damage to property, crops, or the environment, often through their nesting, roosting, or feeding habits. These birds, such as pigeons, crows, and starlings, can also create health risks by spreading diseases through their droppings.

Types of Pest Birds

  • Crows

  • Woodpeckers

  • Pigeons

  • Canada Geese

  • European Starlings

  • House Sparrows

Where Do Birds Live?

Birds in the U.S. thrive in a wide variety of environments, from dense forests and wetlands to open fields and urban areas. Below are the habitats of some of the most common pest birds found across the country.

  • Crows: Crows are highly adaptable birds and can live in a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, urban areas, and coastal regions. They often build their nests in tall trees, but can also be found nesting on buildings, cliffs, or other high structures. Crows thrive in both rural and city environments and often take advantage of the food scraps people leave behind.

  • Woodpeckers: These birds typically live in forests, woodlands, and wooded suburban areas where they can find plenty of trees for foraging and nesting. Woodpeckers create their nests by drilling into tree trunks or deadwood and may also nest in utility poles or wooden structures. Some species of woodpeckers can also adapt to living in parks and gardens, as long as there are suitable trees for them to thrive.

  • Pigeons: Pigeons are highly adaptable and can live in a wide range of environments, from urban cities to rural areas. They often nest on building ledges, under bridges, or in other man-made structures, as well as in cliffs and caves in natural settings. Pigeons prefer places with easy access to food and water, making cities and towns ideal places for them to reside.

  • Canada Geese: These geese are found in a variety of habitats, including lakes, ponds, marshes, and riverbanks, particularly in North America. During migration, they also inhabit open fields, agricultural areas, and wetlands. Canada geese typically build their nests near water and often migrate between northern breeding grounds and southern wintering areas.

  • European Starlings: European starlings are highly adaptable birds that live in a wide range of environments, including farmlands, woodlands, and urban areas. They will often nest in tree cavities, buildings, or other sheltered spaces such as eaves and vents. These birds are migratory in colder regions, moving to warmer areas during the winter, while some stay year-round in milder climates.

  • House Sparrows: While house sparrows are normally found in urban and suburban areas, they are highly adaptable and can also be found in rural areas near farms and residential structures. They typically nest in buildings, under eaves, in vents, or other sheltered spots, making sure to stay close to food sources.

What Do Birds Eat?

Birds have diverse diets that vary depending on the species. Many birds are omnivores, eating a combination of seeds, fruits, insects, and small animals. Birds of prey, such as hawks and eagles tend to hunt for meat like rodents or other birds, while pigeons or ducks, tend to feed on grains, small plants, or aquatic creatures like fish and insects.

How Long Do Birds Live?

The lifespan of birds varies greatly depending on the species. Smaller birds, such as sparrows and finches, will typically live for 3 to 5 years, while larger birds like eagles or swans can live 20 years or more in the wild. Some birds, especially those in protected environments like zoos, can live even longer due to better care and the absence of predators.

What Do Bird Nests Look Like?

Some bird nests are small and cup-shaped, made from twigs, grasses, and leaves, while others are more intricate and made from materials like mud, moss, or even string and paper. Certain birds, like weaverbirds, create elaborate woven nests, while others, such as eagles, generally build large, sturdy nests in tall trees. The nests’ shape, size, and materials will vary depending on the bird’s environment and specific needs.

How To Get Rid of a Birds Nest?

Before you remove a bird's nest, make sure to check local laws first, as many birds are protected by regulations that prevent disturbing or removing their nests, especially during breeding seasons. If removal is permitted, gently take down the nest by hand and ensure that any eggs or chicks are not present. If possible, take preventative steps before nesting season begins to avoid disturbing active nests.

More Bird Facts

Wildlife Management

Orkin provides Wildlife Management services for squirrels, raccoons, birds, and more in some parts of the country.

Can you remove a bird nest in an exhaust vent?

Learn about the risks of bird nests in exhaust vents, steps for safe removal, and how to prevent birds from nesting in these areas.

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