It’s important to take a proactive approach when dealing with pest birds. In the long run, it can save you time and money.
There are many reasons to consider deterring birds from your facility. In a nutshell, birds carry and spread disease and bird feces can corrode building materials.
The build-up of bird droppings or nesting materials is not only unsightly, but can host parasites such as bird mites. If birds are allowed to inhabit an area long enough, they will persistently defend it as their territory.
Common problems birds cause for buildings and facility managers:
Property or Equipment Damage
Bird droppings are highly acidic and can eat through paint, building materials and fabrics. Bird droppings can corrode steel, brick and concrete and will stain surfaces if left unattended. The longer bird droppings are left on a surface, the more damage it will cause.
Health Risk
Birds, droppings and nesting materials carry over 60 diseases that can be passed to humans and animals. Generally those with compromised immune systems are the most at risk. Any areas where people may come into contact with bird droppings should be a cause for concern. Rooftop AC units and ventilation systems can potentially pump dried bird feces into buildings if birds are nesting or roosting near these areas – exposing building inhabitants to histoplasmosis and a host of other diseases.
Clogged Drains
Nesting materials and droppings can clog drains and gutters which can potentially cause flooding or blockage during heavy rains. To prevent water damage, it’s important to discourage birds from nesting on or in gutter areas. Regularly scheduled checks of drainage systems can help prevent this from happening.
Many facilities pay for landscaping, window washing and other general services to help maintain the appearance of a building. Why not bird control? Birds on a sign or ledge or bird droppings covering a sidewalk can send the wrong message to clients or tenants.
Inventory Damage
Bird droppings can damage packaged or stored goods when birds roost or nest in warehouses. These areas provide the shelter and security birds require. Bird droppings can contaminate food or feed and may cause delays in production due to contamination of raw materials or goods.
Slip and Fall Risk
Bird droppings can be slippery, causing a potential safety hazard for customers or employees. In 2008, the city of New York had to pay $6,000,000 dollars in compensation to a man who injured himself in a subway terminal after slipping on bird droppings.
