Having birds in your attic can be a nuisance. Their constant chirping, scratching, and moving around can disrupt your peace and quiet. Even worse, their droppings can cause damage to your insulation and pose health risks if inhaled. Getting birds out of your attic takes patience and persistence, but it can be done humanely without harming the animals.
Did you know it could cost up to $500 for one bird removal session? In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of removing birds from your attic and keeping them out for good.
Key Takeaways
- Birds can enter the attic through small gaps or holes in the roof or walls.
- Birds nesting in the attic can pose health risks due to droppings and parasites.
- Prevention techniques include inspecting and sealing entry points, installing barriers like wire mesh, and using decoys.
- Removal methods include hiring a professional bird removal service, using humane bird traps, and removing appealing items from the attic.
Signs of Birds in Your Attic
The first step is identifying if you actually have unwanted feathered guests in your attic. Here are some telltale signs:
- Chirping, scratching, fluttering, or walking noises coming from the attic, especially early in the morning or evening
- Feathers, nesting materials like straw and twigs, or bird droppings in the attic
- A musty smell coming from the attic space
If you notice any of these signs, it’s likely you have birds that have made themselves at home in your attic. Exercise caution if entering the attic yourself – bird droppings can transmit diseases, so limit your exposure.
Common Birds Found in Attic
The most common bird species to take up residence in attics include:
- Pigeons – Often nest on ledges or beams. Their droppings can damage wood and metal.
- European Starlings – Very noisy birds that nest in cavities in groups. Their droppings have a very strong, unpleasant odor.
- House Sparrows – Nest in gutters or vents in colonies. Very messy nests full of droppings.
- Barn Swallows – Make mud nests on ledges. Very noisy birds.
- House Finches – Nest in concealed spaces. Males sing loudly from their nests.
It is important to identify the species of bird in your attic before attempting to remove them.
Many are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so it is illegal to harm or disturb migratory birds, their nests, or their eggs.
This law protects over 1,000 species of birds, including songbirds, waterfowl, and raptors. Violations of this law can result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
If the birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, you may need to obtain a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before taking any action.
How Birds Get into Attic Spaces
Birds sneak into attics through small gaps and holes. They like the quiet, dark space for laying eggs. Broken or torn vents are often used as entry points. A tiny hole is enough for a bird to get in.
Using a flashlight can make it easier to find these spots. Once inside, birds feel safe and start building nests. This turns your attic into their new home.
Health Risks of Birds Nesting in Attic
Birds nesting in the attic can pose several health risks. One of the main concerns is the accumulation of bird droppings, which can contain harmful bacteria and fungi. These pathogens can cause respiratory issues when they become airborne and are inhaled by humans.
Additionally, dried bird droppings can create dust that carries allergens, leading to allergic reactions or asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. Another risk is the potential for parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites that often infest bird nests.
These pests can easily transfer from birds to humans, causing uncomfortable bites and potentially transmitting diseases. It’s important to address these health risks promptly by removing birds and their nests from your attic.
5 Methods to Get Birds Out of Attic
There are several effective removal methods for getting birds out of your attic, including hiring a professional bird removal service or using humane bird traps.
1. Hiring a professional
If you’re not confident in removing birds from your attic on your own, hiring a professional is a good option. They have the experience and knowledge to safely remove the birds without causing harm.
The cost for bird removal services can vary, with prices ranging from $350 to $650 per visit. An initial visit to remove birds from the attic can cost up to $500. By hiring a professional, you can ensure that the job is done properly and efficiently, giving you peace of mind knowing that your attic is bird-free.
2. Using humane bird traps
You can also use humane bird traps as a method to get birds out of the attic. These traps are designed to safely capture the birds without harming them. Once trapped, you can release the birds outside away from your home.
It is important to check these traps regularly so that captured birds do not become stressed or harmed.
3. Removing appealing items from attic
To get rid of birds in your attic, it’s important to remove any objects or materials that might be attracting them. Birds are often drawn to attics because they provide a safe and warm place to nest.
By removing anything that could be appealing to them, you can discourage their presence. This includes things like bird feeders, nesting materials, food waste, or any other items that might attract birds.
By eliminating these attractants from your attic space, you can make it less inviting for the birds and increase the chances of them finding another nesting site outside of your home.
Additionally, removing appealing items from the attic can help prevent future infestations as well. If there are no enticing materials or food sources available in your attic, birds will be less likely to return or choose it as a suitable nesting location in the first place.
4. Use of bird spikes
Bird spikes are a practical and humane way to deter birds from nesting in your attic. These spikes are usually made of stainless steel or plastic and can be easily installed on flat surfaces or along ledges where birds often perch.
The sharp points on the bird spikes make it uncomfortable for the birds to land, discouraging them from settling in your attic. By implementing bird spikes, you can effectively prevent unwanted avian visitors without causing harm to the birds themselves.
5. Encourage Birds to Leave
You can also encourage birds to leave your attic by using following methods:
- Open windows or vents so birds can escape. Remove any screens blocking their exit.
- Make loud noises by banging pots or playing music. Startle them so they fly out open vents.
- Use fans or leaf blowers to create strong drafts pushing birds towards exits.
- Only remove nests or eggs if absolutely necessary. This should encourage birds to leave on their own.
Preventing Birds from Entering the Attic
To prevent birds from entering your attic, start by thoroughly inspecting and sealing any entry points such as gaps or holes in the roof. Install barriers like wire mesh or hardware cloth to block access, and consider using decoys to deter nesting.
1. Inspecting and sealing entry points
To prevent birds from getting into your attic, you need to inspect and seal any entry points they might be using. Start by checking for broken or torn vents, as well as small holes in the walls or roof that could serve as entrances.
Use a flashlight to help you spot these openings. Once you’ve identified them, make sure to seal them up properly with materials like caulk or steel mesh. This will help ensure that birds won’t be able to find their way back in and nest in your attic.
2. Installing barriers such as wire mesh or hardware cloth
To prevent birds from entering your attic, you can install barriers like wire mesh or hardware cloth. These materials are effective in blocking off entry points and keeping birds out.
Simply cover any openings or gaps with the wire mesh or hardware cloth to create a barrier that birds cannot penetrate. This method is reliable and helps ensure that no new birds will be able to access your attic space.
Remember to inspect the area thoroughly to identify all potential entry points before installing the barriers.
3. Use of decoys
To deter birds from entering your attic, you can use decoys. Placing a fake bird or owl in the attic can trick real birds into thinking it’s not safe to nest there. The sight of a predator will scare them away and discourage them from choosing your attic as their home.
Decoys are an inexpensive and passive way to prevent birds from entering your attic without causing any harm to them. By strategically placing these decoys near potential entry points, you can effectively keep birds out of your attic and avoid the problems they can cause.
Alternatively, using other visual deterrents like reflective materials or wind chimes may also help in deterring birds from nesting in the attic. These simple measures could save you time and money that would otherwise be spent on removal services or repairing damages caused by nesting birds.
4. Installing birdhouses
You can also consider installing birdhouses as a way to prevent birds from nesting in your attic. By providing them with an alternative, they may be less likely to choose your attic as their nesting site.
Birdhouses should be installed away from the house and at a height that is appealing to birds. This will give them a designated space to build their nests and raise their young, while keeping them out of your attic.
Cleaning and Repair After Bird Infestation in Attic
After successfully removing birds from the attic, you should focus on cleaning and repairing any damage caused by the bird infestation. This section will provide tips on how to clean and repair your attic after a bird infestation.
Removing Nests and Nesting Materials
The first step in cleaning your attic after a bird infestation is to remove all nests and nesting materials.
This will help prevent future bird infestations.
It is highly recommended wear gloves and a mask when removing nests to avoid exposure to bird droppings and other harmful substances.
Once all nests and nesting materials have been removed, you should thoroughly clean the affected area.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to clean up any remaining debris.
Be sure to clean all surfaces, including walls, floors, and ceilings.
Repairing Damage and Sealing Openings
Birds can cause significant damage to attics, including pecking holes in walls and ceilings, damaging insulation, and creating openings for other pests to enter.
You should inspect their attic for any damage caused by the bird infestation and make any necessary repairs.
If there are holes in the walls or ceilings, you should patch them up with drywall or plaster. Insulation that has been damaged by birds should be replaced.
You may need to hire a contractor to make these repairs.
To prevent future bird infestations, it is recommended to seal any openings in attic.
This includes sealing gaps around vents, pipes, and other openings with caulk or foam sealant.
FAQs
What are the most common birds that get into attics?
The most common attic-invading bird species are pigeons, European starlings, house sparrows, barn swallows, and house finches. Each has their own nesting behaviors that allow them to access attic spaces. Identifying the bird can help with proper removal.
Is it safe to enter an attic with birds myself?
Exercise caution when entering an attic with birds. Their droppings can transmit diseases. Limit exposure and wear protective clothing, gloves, and a respirator mask. It’s often best to hire a professional wildlife control company for safe removal.
What is the best way to get birds out of the attic?
Start by opening windows, vents or holes so birds can escape. Make loud noises to startle them out. Use fans or leaf blowers to force them towards exits. Remove nests/eggs only if necessary. Traps or nets can also be used to capture birds humanely.
How do I keep birds from coming back after removing them?
It’s crucial to block all possible entrances after removing birds. Seal holes, gaps and cracks thoroughly with caulk or expandable foam. Install bird spikes, netting, repellent devices, and trim any nearby trees. Keep the attic interior well-lit and ventilated.
Should I hire a professional even if there are only a few birds?
It’s often best to hire wildlife professionals even for minor infestations. They have the proper training and equipment to remove birds humanely and legally, especially protected species. DIY removal risks harming birds.
What if birds keep coming back after I try removing them myself?
If birds return after DIY removal efforts, it’s a sign that major entry points are still available for them to access. Calling a professional wildlife control company can help identify and permanently seal off all possible entrances.