swat_wildlife-4481174 Nature has its place, and it’s important to keep the balance while staying humane. Birds are mobile, and visitors don’t pose much problem. When one or more birds have decided to to make a home or roosting place near you, that can affect the way people enjoy their space. Before taking matters into your own hands, consider the following facts.

How did these birds get here?


Birds tend to live where there is a food source nearby. Once the birds have established a feeding pattern, they’ll build their homes in the area. Furthermore, the way birds manage the space is similar to humans. There is real estate that’s good for living, and when existing birds are removed, new or young birds take over that space. If you see one bird, chances are you’re not seeing the same bird over and over.

It’s a repeat problem


Building a bird trap and poisoning birds is a temporary solution if the surrounding space isn’t made less habitable. Chemical repellents could be a better alternative, as it isn’t supposed to be lethal. Spraying surfaces with repellent could have complications, such as sticking to feathers. Furthermore, repellents are worn away by rain and snow and also lose their stickiness when dust and debris settle. Typically, in urban areas, pigeons, sparrows, and starlings are the birds that can overcrowd an area. Depending on local laws, they may be protected from harm by humans. If you’re tempted to use poison, it’s important to know that you can’t always control who has access to it nor can you always keep the poison in one spot. If pets or children reach the treated areas, the consequences might be very serious.

Asking the birds to move

birds_2-9250070 Removing the food source will persuade birds to leave the area. Without food, the bird will have to fly farther to find enough to eat. You may also consider blocking favourite roosting areas, like porches or rafters. Erecting the image of natural predators is probably not going to do much. The intelligence of certain birds has been documented. Once birds realize that the images do no harm, they won’t be deterred by the figures. It’s most effective when the surrounding area has also been treated in the same way. Birds tend to congregate, and popular areas stay popular because of the way they stick together. Even though more birds means more competition, it’s less common for lone birds to live by themselves. If at all possible, contact your neighbours and ask them to remove bird feeders or other food sources.

While this method takes the most work in the short term, it will likely have better results than poisoning or removing the birds. Once the birds leave, their likelihood of coming back will have fallen. The birds will relocate and try to find a home elsewhere. Contacting a specialist in wildlife removal who will have experience locating sources of food and roosting areas hidden from view is the best method. It’s also the safest and most humane method of pest removal.

  •  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: www.shutterstock.com
  •  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: www.shutterstock.com

Anne Flemings is a very energetic mother of two. She is an interior designer by profession but is also an excellent cook. She is an enthusiastic person and believes in living life to its fullest. She writes columns and blogs on various topics that she has interest in. She can be followed on twitter @AnneFlemings

HMH

By HMH