Most of us don’t see birds in the same light as rodents and other pests. We may even try to attract them by placing birdbaths or bird feeders in our yards. But if you own a business, drawing birds to your commercial property is the last thing you want to do. From the health hazards birds create to the potential for property damage, Terminix Anderson explains why certain species make bird control a must for your Illinois business.
The Dangers of Bird Droppings
If you consider birds welcome visitors, it’s important to understand the dangers they bring to your property. While humans are unlikely to become ill through direct contact with birds, these winged intruders can transmit diseases like the potentially life-threatening histoplasmosis via their droppings.
The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends wearing personal protective equipment, including a respirator outfitted with HEPA filters, when cleaning up old accumulations of droppings. Bird droppings also corrode expensive business equipment and materials like metal, concrete, and paint. Bird exclusion can help protect your property – and visitors’ cars – from the corrosive effects of bird droppings.
Effective Bird Control
Birds have many reasons to infest your business property. Like most pests, they’re looking for food, water, and a place to sleep and mate. Birds also gather to socialize, which is why you may see large groups congregating on your rooftop. Discourage birds from gathering and roosting on your roof by placing bird spikes in rows. These humane devices are simple pieces of plastic or other materials that make sitting on your rooftop uncomfortable. Try these additional bird exclusion and control tactics in other areas:
- Apply gel, spray, or electronic repellents
- Use netting to keep birds away from fruit trees
- Place netting over and around HVAC units to prevent nesting
It’s important to avoid direct contact with birds – and for more than their potential hazards. Illinois laws protect most species from being harmed by citizens, and municipalities often have their own supplemental rules.
The Best Defense Against Birds
In addition to these preventative measures, protect your business by contacting a pest control company with bird-specific experience and training. These professionals safely and effectively eliminate current infestations and prevent them from reoccurring. Trust the knowledgeable team at Terminix Anderson to provide your home or business with safe, effective bird control. Contact us today for a free quote.
