Implementing Ethical and Cost Effective Bird Control
Bird Control programme using falconry response
Birds enhance the world we live in, however conflict occurs particularly in the working environment. This can occur when problem birds damage property or even attack people when nesting. Whilst nuisance birds are undesirable it is the mess they leave behind which creates the biggest challenge.
Below is an outline for effective protection from bird problems.
1. Identify the pest species and reason for control
All birds are protected. However under the General Licence with certain pest species it is possible to trap or shoot providing; authorisation is gained from the owner of the premises or his/her representative, that there is good reason and that all non-lethal methods have been explored.
2. Only use qualified and accredited professionals
There are many ‘pest control’ companies but few with knowledge and experience of the complexities of bird control or bird legislation. Picking the wrong contractor can, at best, result in poor value for money or at worst litigation.
3. Choosing a bird control programme
There are many non-lethal solutions that should be considered prior to lethal methods.
- We will recommend better housekeeping measure if required ensuring nuisance birds are not fed or have the opportunity to feed on litter.
- It may be possible to prevent the birds from entering or landing at the location through proofing and there are many options ranging from bird netting, bird spikes, an electrical bird deterrent which carries a small and harmless charge, there is even a bird gel (known as “Bird Free” or “Fake Fire” gel) which gives off a UV flame only seen by birds.
- Falconry. It is not just the immediate presence of a bird of prey which will scare the target problem bird species away. Birds of prey need to be used in a sustained programme long enough to change the pest species habits. Regular visits will stop other birds filling the void created by those leaving.
4. Lethal control
Even for pest species lethal control should always be a last resort. Although effective on the birds eliminated, studies have shown that pigeon populations in the area remain unaffected, If the pest species attractants are not dealt with the building or area still has the capability to sustain the same levels of nuisance birds as their mobile nature quickly fills the void that these eliminated birds will create.
5. Ensure evaluation and reporting for auditing
It is essential that the process is documented and evaluated right from the very start. You should be able to demonstrate that you have considered the situation carefully to protect yourself and demonstrate due diligence and to meet required legislation (The General Licence and The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981). Operations should be evaluated with bird counts and site visits reports before, during and after works which will help assess the bird control programme.
By properly considering non-lethal bird control methods that we strongly advocate, our customers can demonstrate that they are ethical, moral and law-abiding.
6. Contact the UK’s bird control experts
Don’t just take our word for it!
