Birds can become a serious problem when they roost or nest on buildings, causing damage, noise, and hygiene concerns. This FAQ answers common questions about bird-related issues and explains how Pest ID provides safe, legal, and effective bird control solutions across Chelmsford, East London, Essex, and Kent.
What bird problems do you commonly deal with?
Pest ID regularly manages issues caused by pest birds such as pigeons, gulls, and other nuisance birds. Common problems include fouling, noise, nesting on buildings, blocked gutters, and damage to roofs, signage, and solar panels.
Why are birds considered a pest?
While birds are protected wildlife, certain species can cause serious health, safety, and property issues. Bird droppings are acidic and can damage buildings, create slip hazards, and pose health risks due to bacteria and fungal spores.
Are birds protected by law in the UK?
Yes. Most wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Pest ID works fully within the law, using humane, compliant methods and advising on what can and cannot be done legally.
What bird species cause the most problems in the UK?
Pigeons, gulls, starlings, and corvids (such as crows and magpies) are among the most common species associated with nuisance behaviour in urban and commercial environments.
What bird control methods do you use?
We use proven, humane deterrents such as bird spikes, bird netting, post-and-wire systems, anti-roosting systems, and proofing measures. The solution is always tailored to the species, location, and level of activity.
Do fake owls, plastic hawks, or reflective objects work?
These visual deterrents may work briefly, but birds quickly recognise they pose no real threat. They are not effective long-term solutions for established bird activity.
Do ultrasonic or sound devices work for bird control?
There is no strong evidence that ultrasonic devices provide reliable or long-term bird control. Birds often ignore or become accustomed to these sounds.
Are bird control methods humane?
Yes. All bird control solutions provided by Pest ID are humane and designed to deter birds from landing or nesting, rather than causing harm.
Can bird spikes harm birds?
No. When installed correctly, bird spikes prevent landing and roosting without injuring birds. They are widely used and recognised as a humane deterrent.
What problems do pigeon droppings cause?
Pigeon droppings are highly acidic and can corrode stone, brickwork, metal, and paint. They also carry bacteria and fungi that may pose health risks, especially in enclosed or heavily contaminated areas.
Can bird droppings affect health?
Yes. Accumulated droppings can harbour bacteria and fungal spores that may cause respiratory or skin issues, particularly in poorly ventilated areas.
Can you remove bird nests?
Nest removal is subject to strict legal controls. Active nests cannot be disturbed. Pest ID can assess the situation, advise on legality, and carry out removal only when permitted, usually outside the breeding season.
Why do birds keep returning to the same building?
Birds are highly habitual and return to safe, sheltered locations with suitable roosting or nesting spots. Without effective proofing, they are likely to return year after year.
Is bird netting suitable for residential properties?
Yes. Bird netting can be installed on residential and commercial buildings where appropriate. It is one of the most effective methods for preventing access to roof spaces, balconies, courtyards, and solar panels.
Do you provide bird control for businesses?
Yes. Pest ID offers bird control solutions for warehouses, retail units, offices, food premises, industrial sites, and property managers, including long-term prevention strategies.
Can birds damage solar panels?
Yes. Birds often nest beneath solar panels, leading to fouling, wiring damage, blocked drainage, and reduced panel efficiency. Specialist proofing systems can prevent this without affecting performance.
Can bird control be installed without disrupting business operations?
In most cases, yes. Pest ID plans installations carefully to minimise disruption, particularly for commercial and public-facing sites.
Is bird control a one-off treatment?
Bird control is typically preventative. Long-term success usually requires correctly installed deterrents and, in some cases, ongoing monitoring or maintenance.
How long do bird control systems last?
Professionally installed systems are designed to be long-lasting and weather-resistant, though occasional inspection and maintenance may be recommended.
Why choose Pest ID for bird control?
Pest ID provides lawful, humane, and effective bird control solutions backed by experience and local knowledge across Chelmsford, East London, Essex, and Kent.
