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from 1/29/2021
Dealing with pest birds in Westchester County is extremely common because many of the most prevalent species thrive in urban settings near humans. These pest birds, including sparrows, starlings, and pigeons, live near people to easily access food and shelter.
Because these birds, especially pigeons, are such a normal backdrop of urban and even suburban life, many people barely notice them at all. Pest birds fade into the background for most people, while other people enjoy watching or even feeding them. However, while they might be pretty to look at, pest birds can pose health and safety risks when they invade a property.
A Guide To Common Pest Birds
To help you identify pest birds in Westchester, we've put together an easy-to-follow description for each of the three main species.
Sparrows are the smallest of the three main pest birds in the area, at around only 6 inches long. Their appearance differs depending on if they are male, or female. The males have grey heads, red-brown bodies, black necks, and tan underbellies. The females instead are tan, with reddish-brown wings.
Starlings are larger than sparrows, and can get to be around 8 inches tall. They are a stocky bird that has a short tail, and their feathers are dark green with white speckled patterning.
Pigeons are by far the most common pest bird you’ll deal with in Westchester. They range from 11-15 inches tall, and they are a blue-grey color with two black bands on their wings. They also have iridescent feathers on their necks.
What Problems Can Pest Birds Cause?
Having pest birds around your home or business can lead to some big health and safety risks for yourself, and others. Pest birds, namely pigeons, are especially a concern for business owners, as the build-up of pigeon feces can pose a slip-and-fall hazard that could harm customers, and put your company's reputation at risk.
Along with the risk of slipping, here are the other main problems with having pest birds around your property:
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Birds can spread many diseases, including E. coli, Avian flu, and histoplasmosis, an infection spread by a fungus that leads to respiratory problems.
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A bird’s droppings can ruin paint, varnish, and other wooden structures.
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They can also ruin machinery and equipment through their droppings, or by nesting on these items.
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Some birds can also carry parasites.
5 Simple Pest Bird Prevention Tips
To keep your property free of these obnoxious pests, you can take proactive steps now to keep birds from nesting around your home, or business. By doing so, you can reduce the likelihood of a pest bird problem, and prevent property damage and health risks.
Here are five of the best prevention steps:
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Never feed these birds. This includes removing bird feeders around your property if you’ve noticed pest birds around.
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If you notice any nests, get rid of them immediately.
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Regularly trim trees and shrubs to rent rid of areas where birds can nest.
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To keep pigeons from nesting, block off areas that are surrounded by walls and covered by a roof, as these like to roost in these places.
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Keep trash cans covered with lids, as some pest birds will be attracted to food left in the garbage.
What Can You Do About Pest Birds?
Trying to prevent and remove pest birds on your own isn’t always easy, and birds can be a rather frustrating pest to keep away from your property. If you’re struggling to keep these dangerous birds away from your home or business, let the experts at Parkway Pest Services help. We use humane methods of bird removal, including spikes and netting that remove them from your property without hurting the birds in the process.
Discover more about our residential and commercial pest control services for pest birds by calling us at (888) 858-0144. We also offer free quotes.
