Common Pest Bird Species & How To Deal With Them

Birds make up a fascinating part of our ecosystem in the UK, but they're not always welcome on our buildings. Knowing the common pest bird species and how to deal with them can help protect your property from damage.

Whether you're protecting a commercial property, a domestic dwelling, or hard-earned crops, we've got you covered with expert bird pest control tips for managing starlings and other nuisance birds.

Why Pest Birds Are a Serious Threat

Pest birds like pigeons, starlings, and seagulls are a common problem for UK homeowners and businesses. They can cause significant damage to your property and garden.

Taking effective pest control measures is the best way to protect your property from these nuisance birds.

Top 4 Bird Pests in the UK

In the UK, we're lucky that our wildlife is relatively tame and safe. However, certain bird species can become pests when they invade our homes and gardens.

These are the top 4 bird pests that homeowners and businesses in the UK should be aware of:

The Urban Number One: The Feral Pigeon

Feral pigeons (otherwise known as Rock Doves) are a major pest in the UK, especially in cities where they thrive. Their ability to adapt to urban environments makes them a common sight in towns and cities.

Pigeons cause problems by gathering in large numbers and leaving behind droppings that can damage buildings, monuments, and vehicles due to their acidity. These droppings also pose health risks, spreading diseases like salmonella and psittacosis.

On top of that, their nests often block gutters, vents, and drains, leading to expensive maintenance.

These methods work by blocking access to nesting and roosting spots, which deters the birds without hurting them

The Coastal & Inland Aggressor: Gulls.

Gulls are considered pests in the UK because they are adaptable and opportunistic.

In coastal towns, gulls are known for scavenging. They often swoop down on people to steal food, which can be intimidating for tourists and locals. Their droppings also create a mess in public spaces, on benches, and on cars.

Inland, particularly near landfill sites, gulls present different problems. The constant food supply from waste has allowed their populations to grow, leading to noise pollution and an increased risk of spreading disease. These inland gulls often form large roosts that can disrupt local ecosystems and attract other pests.

When used in combination, these practices provide a comprehensive approach to minimising gull-related disturbances and safeguarding urban or rural environments.

Note: Because gull-related issues vary by location, management strategies need to be tailored to each specific area to be effective.

The Cavity Roosters: European Starlings

European Starlings are considered pests in the UK because they often roost in building cavities, causing problems for property owners and communities.

These birds gather in large numbers, especially in winter, and their roosting can lead to blocked gutters, structural damage, and mess from their droppings.

The droppings are not only unhygienic but can also wear down building materials over time. Additionally, their loud, communal behaviour can be disruptive, particularly in urban or residential areas.

Large starling roosts can also push out native bird species, further affecting local ecosystems.

This approach ensures a balance between resolving the issue and maintaining ethical responsibility toward these birds.

Note: It's crucial to ensure that any deterrents are installed only after young starlings have fledged, in compliance with wildlife protection laws.

The Persistent Small Pest: House Sparrows

House sparrows are one of the most common pest birds in the UK because they adapt well to human environments.

These small birds often build nests in the roofs, eaves, and wall cavities of buildings in urban and suburban areas. This nesting can cause structural damage and block ventilation systems.

House sparrows reproduce quickly, which can lead to a rapid infestation. Their nests and droppings can also carry mites and bacteria, creating health risks for people.

Their aggressive behaviour can also push out native bird species, harming local ecosystems.

Because they are persistent, adaptable, and damaging, house sparrows are a difficult pest to control.

These physical barriers are humane, low-maintenance, and highly effective in reducing sparrow activity without harming the birds.

One of the best ways to keep birds off your property is to use physical barriers like bird netting. This netting creates a physical separation, blocking birds from areas where they could cause damage.

For example, you can use it to protect crops from being eaten by sparrows, starlings, and pigeons. It's also great for covering rooftops and solar panels to prevent birds from nesting, making a mess, or damaging equipment.

For bird netting to work well, you need to use the right mesh size for the specific bird you're trying to keep out.

• Small birds (sparrows): Use a fine mesh of 19mm (3/4 inch) or less.
• Medium-sized birds (starlings): A 28mm (1 1/8 inch) mesh is effective.
• Large birds (pigeons): A 50mm (2-inch) mesh is best.

Using the wrong mesh size won't work. Birds might get through or become trapped, which can cause them harm. Choosing the correct size ensures the netting is both humane and effective at protecting your property.

If you're not sure what mesh size you need to safely deter birds, get in touch with our sales team, who are always happy to help.

Repellents & Deterrents

Repellents and deterrents are effective tools to keep birds away from your property without causing harm to them.

One popular option is bird spikes, which may sound intimidating, but are actually a humane solution. These spikes are designed to prevent birds from landing on surfaces like ledges, guttering, and windowsills, without injuring them.

The spikes create an uneven surface that birds find uncomfortable to perch on, encouraging them to move on to a more suitable area.

Another effective method is bird repellent gel, which relies on birds' vision to deter them. This gel creates an optical illusion, appearing as a flame or bright light to birds.

This visual cue discourages them from landing without causing them any harm. Bird repellent gel is an excellent choice for use on smaller surfaces, such as signage, railings, or narrow edges where birds might otherwise gather.

These solutions are particularly useful in urban or residential areas where birds are prone to congregating and causing damage or mess.

Habitat Modification

Habitat modification is an important part of bird control. By changing the environment to make it less appealing, you can reduce the chances of birds settling where they’re not wanted.

Start with proper waste management. Secure bins and dispose of rubbish properly to keep birds away from food. Removing standing water also helps by eliminating possible drinking spots.

To address roosting areas, trim overgrown trees and bushes or adjust ledges to make them less suitable for birds.

These steps, combined with other bird control methods, create a well-rounded and effective solution.

Legal & Humane Considerations in Bird Control

When dealing with pest birds on your property in the UK, it's vital to follow the law and use humane methods.

Many bird species, even those seen as pests, are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This act makes it illegal to intentionally kill, injure, or disturb wild birds, or to destroy their active nests.

To legally remove or disturb a bird's nest, you’ll need a General Licence. This is only granted for specific reasons, like protecting public health or preventing serious crop damage. It is important to ensure any action you take is legal to avoid fines and harm to wildlife.

Choosing non-lethal and preventative methods—such as netting, deterrents, and changing the habitat—is the best approach both legally and ethically. These steps allow property owners to control birds effectively while prioritising animal welfare.

Final Thoughts: Effectively Protect Your Property From Pest Birds

Protecting your property from pest birds is crucial for maintaining its appearance and structural integrity.

Bird droppings are acidic and can damage buildings, vehicles, and landscaping. Nests can also block gutters, leading to water damage and higher maintenance costs.

By preventing these issues, you can save money on expensive repairs and keep your property in top condition. Taking proactive steps to manage pest birds is a smart investment that protects both your property and your finances.

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