by Sos Wildlife Control | Sep 26, 2016 | Bird Control
Nuisance birds on your property can, and have been a problem for many Toronto and York Region residents for a long time. People often tolerate these dilemmas for long periods of times before they throw in the towel and call a professional. There are several reasons why bird removal, or any type of wildlife removal is left unresolved for a while before calling, which could stem from finances, to lack of time or even just for the sake of putting it off.
Here we touch base with the importance of what Bird Removal is, why it is so important, what common bird problems occur and the easiest way to get rid of birds.
What is Bird Removal & why is it Important?
- Bird removal are a series of methods and strategies used to get rid of birds on your property.
- Bird removal is important because if left untreated the bird population increases, which complicates the removal process
- Bird droppings can be toxic
- Bird’s nests can be dangerous when they are perched on and around wires that could lead to safety hazards
Conducting bird removal before the situation escalated is always recommended for a number of reasons. In addition to the list above, birds also can cause problems like leaving nesting material nearby or in drain pipes which could lead to water damage. The sight of bird droppings are unpleasant and the chance of being victim to bird dropping is less than favourable. If bird removal is left untreated for long period of time, there is a likelihood that the bird population will increase further complicating the situation. Dealing with bird removal as early on as possible can save you in time, damages, and costs in the future.
What is the Problem with Birds?
Although bird watching from afar can be mesmerizing, having birds up-close and on your Personal Property can be a problem.
Here’s why:
- Bird’s droppings can stain property and damage building materials.
- Bird nests can also clog drains which leads to water damage.
- Nuisance bird noises throughout the day
- Birds perching on your property
What’s the Easiest way to get Rid of Birds?
It’s easy to think that birds are the easiest things to get rid of compared to getting rid of mice or bugs. We assume that we can just chase a bird and they fly away and never come back, but unfortunately this is not the case. Birds need to be Removed by professionals; the easiest way to remove birds is to call a wildlife removal company like SOS Wildlife Control Inc.
Some of the Methods that we use to Conduct Bird Removal are the following:
Bird spikes are tracks that are installed over flat surfaces that make it impossible for birds to land on. It causes no harm to the animal, it simply ensures that the bird won’t be able to perch on this location! Bird spikes are durable and effective, requiring little to no maintenance.
Bird netting is a method of bird prevention that uses stainless steel cables and nets to block off a specific area from birds. This is a permanent solution as long as the netting is not tampered with.
A shock track is installed on ledges or any flat surfaces where birds are not welcome to perch. It is useful from deterring all species of birds by releasing an electric pulse. This method does not injure birds, however it is unpleasant resulting in the discouragement of birds on your property./
A one-way door is our most commonly used removal method for birds. A one-way door is fit to a specific entry point which allows the bird to exit but not re-enter the property.
If you notice signs of wildlife in your house give us a call. At SOS wildlife control, we provide superior pest control services for residential, commercial and industrial clients, guaranteeing effective results every single time.. Taking action before it’s too late will help eliminate animal damage repair costs. We can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for a thorough inspection to help evacuate all your unwanted wildlife guests in the most humane way possible.
by SOS Wildlife Control | Feb 18, 2016 | Bird Control
Last Updated: June 2016
You don’t need to grow up or live in the GTA for too long to know that the city needs Toronto bird removal services. These free-flying, wing-flapping animals have populated Toronto for a long time now, and it appears to only be increasing. If you’re walking down the sidewalk, it is not unlikely to find a group of birds perched up on a powerline, a child running and scaring a flock of birds at a park to watch them fly away, or birds together scavenging for food at Dundas Square. While birds can be entertaining to watch from a far (so much that the activity is a hobby), their bravery and population has called for the need of Toronto bird removal services.
Bird problems have been causes for health concerns, safety problems and damaged property. To deal with Toronto bird problems requires the right kind of knowledge and professional expertise and experience. There are several things to take into consideration when dealing with Toronto bird removal, for example the laws and regulation protecting certain species of birds. Before any action in performed, it should be verified whether it is legal or not to conduct bird removal of the species you’ve encountered. Otherwise you might be faced with a penalty. There are 3 birds that are not protected under Migratory Bird Treaty; these birds are the Sparrow, the Starlings and the Pigeons.
The Sparrows, the Starlings and the Pigeons
Sparrows, starling and pigeons are the 3 species of birds that are not protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty. This means, if you encounter or are experiencing a problem with either one of these types of birds, having them removed is legal. The following are some of the characteristics of the pigeon, the sparrow and the starlings.
Pigeons (also known as Rock Dove)
- Approximately 35 cm long and 65 cm wingspan
- Can fly around 50 miles per hour
- Dark blue/grey in color with specs of white on the wings and green around the neck
- Pigeons breed all year with summer and spring being peak seasons
- They have a 15 year lifespan
- Can have permanent habitats and have ‘homing instincts’
- Pigeon droppings are toxic/acidic
- Can carry fleas and mites
Sparrows
- Approximately 16 cm long and 20 cm wingspan
- Can fly around 45 miles per hour
- Small brownish, grey and white bird with rounded wings
- Breeding season occurs march to early august
- In the wild, sparrows usually have a life expectancy of about 4-5 years
- Sparrows are sociable
- Salmonella is common in House Sparrows
Starlings (also known as European Starlings)
- Approximately 20 cm long and 40 cm wingspan
- Can fly around 45 miles per hour
- Appear black, but up close reveals a purple/green color and are brown in the winter
- Breeding season occurs September to December
- There is a record of a European Starling living up to 15 years and 3 months
- European Starlings are cavity nesters, which means they like to find small open spaces/holes to nest
- European Starling droppings can carry infectious disease
- More facts about European Starlings
Toronto Bird Problem
Birds are wonderful and beautiful wildlife. Unfortunately in some cases they have become nuisances. The reason for the rise in need for Toronto bird removal is because of the problems that occur due to them. People are being faced with issues such messy nests on their property, inconveniencing them with the nest placement/ the droppings they leave, the noise caused and are altogether not happy with the situation. In addition to birds being a nuisance, bird nests are also the cause for some safety hazards. Nests placed in areas like vents are potential fire hazards and must be taken care of as soon as possible. Toronto bird removal not handled properly or in a timely manner can result in damage of air conditioning equipment, industrial machines, insulation, soffits and roofs causing structural problems. Birds are also often carriers of fleas and mites that cause redness and itchiness when it gets on skin. When not properly taken care of, in the event where a bird/birds nest is in your home’s ventilation, it can spread. Pigeon droppings are also something to be aware of, they are toxic and acidic and if not addressed, can cause damage.
SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated Toronto Bird Removal
Toronto bird removal done by SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated results in a job well done. The entire situation is clearly mapped out and a personalized plan based on the structure of your home, the service required and the type of bird is developed. Depending on the situation, different removal methods are conducted. Spikes, nets, metal meshing and one way doors are some of the processes conducted. Spiked are placed a-top a flat surface and simply deter the bird from landing. Birds like sparrows can be effectively evicted with our small one-way doors due to their size where they travel out of the funnel but are unable to return. The type/size of net or mesh is determined by the type and size of the bird, so when our wildlife operators are examining the condition, they are determining the best option for your situation.
If you notice signs of wildlife in your house give us a call. At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we provide superior Toronto bird removal services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Let us help you solve your wildlife problems. Taking action before it’s too late will help eliminate animal damage repair costs. We can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for a thorough inspection to help evacuate all your unwanted wildlife guests in the most humane way possible.
Call SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated at 1.800.981.0330 for Toronto Bird Removal!
by SOS Wildlife Control | Jan 15, 2016 | Bird Control
Last Updated: June 2016
Unlike mice or squirrels who make a home out of your house by slickly inhabiting a living space, a bird’s presence and entrance can be spotted out a little more easily. The rustling noises in the corner of a room or a low flying bird hysterically maneuvering around the kitchen space is hardly subtle. In Ontario there are over a hundred different species of birds that live in the province. Some of these birds make it into more urban or city areas and will often experience certain troubling encounters such as getting trapped in somebody’s home, flying into windows or encounters other wildlife in the city. For a homeowner, having to get rid of birds or avoid having them in any of these situations can be an unpleasant one.
As mentioned above, there are very many different types of birds in Ontario. Some of the more common types of birds that you will see in city areas are the European Starling, House Sparrow and the famous Pigeon (also referred to as Rock Dove). These flying friends often become nuisances to us due to the messes made around the household. Birds are often guilty of damaging the house by making nests and messes in places like the garage or yards. They might destroy the garden and your fruit tree, and they leave droppings wherever they stay. Birds in more city areas also become victims of flying into windows of homes and high buildings which unfortunately often result in their death. With the amount of birds this is happening to annually being so high, it’s best to take action now to keep that number from climbing. Flap Canada is an organization that specializes in keeping these birds safe from these incidents.
To get rid of birds from your home there are a couple preventable measure you can take. Having a bright/flashing lights can help get rid of birds from your property (birds will avoid a bright light with an increasing flashing speed, giving the illusion that something is quickly heading towards them). Another technique to get rid of birds is to hang pie tins or aluminum plates from the trees. The reflective light on the tins from the sun and movement they make from the wind aid in keeping your fruit trees bird-free. Depending on where you live, Scarecrows are another option for you to help get rid of birds and keep them away too. If they are residing on the outside of the house, another thing you can do to get rid of birds is to install water sprinklers and seal/shut any doors or holes where birds can enter to keep them from coming in and use your home to build a nest.
How to get rid of birds from inside your home
If a bird has entered the room/building, here are a couple steps that you can follow
- Shut the doors: Getting rid of birds from inside a building can be hectic. Take control of the situation by first limiting the area where the bird could go by shutting the doors.
- Clear the room of other pets: Keep both the bird and your pets safe by separating them into different rooms. A loud barking noise or jumping animals will keep him from settling down making it harder for you to get rid of the bird
- Settle down: The bird can see, hear and sense your level of panic. If you are afraid of the bird, be aware that the bird is also afraid of you and will not calm down until everything else has as well.
- Clear exit path: Create a hassle free pathway towards the exit of the home that is clear and easy for the bird to leave from.
- Use a towel/blanket or call a technician: Only if the bird does not fly out on his own, gently ross a blanket/towel to help you move it out. This should be used as a last resort. Be very careful when moving the bird out of the building. If you are still experiencing trouble with the bird call an animal removal service company to help you.
At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated Inc, we provide superior wildlife removal services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients, guaranteeing effective results every single time. Let us help you solve your wildlife problems. Taking action before it’s too late will help eliminate animal damage repair costs. We are available and can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait, call us to schedule an appointment for a thorough inspection to help evacuate all your unwanted wildlife guests in the most humane way possible.
Call SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated 1.800.981.0330 for Bird Removal!
by SOS Wildlife Control | Oct 26, 2015 | Bird Control
Last Updated: May 2016
While squirrels and raccoons tend to run away, birds; especially pigeons, aren’t necessarily intimidated by being in close proximity with people in Toronto. Because they’re not scared of people, pigeon control has become a serious need for residents all over the Greater Toronto Area. Pigeons are acclimated to living in urban environments, creating their nests around all types of structures. While houses and shorter buildings are more popular among pigeons to call home, they have recently started trying out the higher lifestyle monopolizing condo balconies, window ledges, patios and terraces. It causes even more of a problem to the residents of these structures because pigeons usually travel and live in flocks.
The common pigeons taking over the structures in our city are called “feral pigeons”. They are urban, and can co-habitate with people in the same space without being frightened. They are mainly dark blue/grey, sometimes have white or lighter specs on their wings, have glossy greenish iridescence around the neck, and have red feet and legs. On average they are about 35 cm’s long, with approximately 65-70 cm’s of wingspan. They breed all year around with spring and summer being the peak breeding periods. Feral pigeons usually nest and breed on or in buildings with roof voids being the most popular location. Feral pigeons can live up to 15 years. Long lifespan of pigeons often result in permanent living habits as far as locations go, requiring a pigeon control need for residents.
Pigeon Characteristics
- They can fly at an altitude of up to 7000 feet
- They fly at an average speed of 80 mph
- They fly on average 600-700 miles per day
- They are known for their intelligence and complexity
- Pigeons are one of the only small number of species in the world to pass the “mirror test”, a test of self-recognition
- Pigeons have outstanding navigational abilities and excellent memory, they use the sun as a guide, but a study has shown that they also use landmarks, signposts, and roads. Their excellent ability to remember helps them find their homes and food without any difficulty
- They mate for life and raise their chicks as partners
- They have excellent hearing abilities, and can sense distant storms and volcanoes
Often times, and in reasonable proximity from one another, it’s very common to see bird food put out for pigeons on the streets of Toronto. This could be a result of a religious ceremony performed by many different religions, or just an act of humanity as many people put out bird food and/or bread crumbs out solely for feeding purposes. This can create a situation where an ongoing pigeon control measures may be necessary. As pigeons have excellent memory, they tend to come back to areas where they can easily get fed, and bring food to their nests to feed their partners and chicks. Although it’s an act of humanity to feed the birds, it creates a problem for many people, as their feathers and droppings monopolize people’s properties, windowsills, roofs, and balconies etc. Aside from causing and unappealing presence of one’s property, pigeons are also known carriers of diseases such as salmonella, tuberculosis, and ornithosis. They are also a source of allergens, which cause respiratory discomfort as well as allergic skin reactions.
Pigeon Control Services
When faced with a pigeon control problem, one’s first instinct is to look for Do-It-Yourself solutions. Unlike rodents, raccoons, or skunks; it is often assumed that pigeons are an easier problem for people to handle themselves. In some cases, this can be true, in most; unfortunately that’s not the case. As per above, pigeons are extremely intelligent. Before resorting to any DIY options, one has to understand the capacity of the pigeon problem. One of the problems could be daytime perching, where pigeons use buildings as a point of food source. Another problem is overnight roosting, where pigeons use buildings to protect themselves at night and sleep. Another problem could be breeding. Needless to say, each of these problems would require a different type of solution. It is also crucial to understand that no matter what action one has taken to deter pigeons, it is possible that one may simply move the problem from one area to the other. This could be a frustrating and expensive experience. As with other unwanted animals and critters, pigeon control is a service that can be provided by experts. At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we can take care of all of your pigeon/bird related problems. We use spikes and netting depending on your needs. We install these deterrents in a timely fashion for quick and effective results. Not only do we use a humane technique, we also provide an ultimately permanent outcome.
If your immediate property does not require any professional pigeon control services, but you do have relevant problems in your area, you can resort to alternative options. If you live/work in an area occupied heavily by fast food outlets, and this is attracting pigeons to your area, you can contact Environment Canada for an inspection. If it’s an instance of deliberate feeding of pigeons, you can contact your respective local council. You can find your local council contacts on the City of Toronto website. There are many ways to go about when it comes to solutions for a pigeon control problem. From understanding the more basic pigeon problems yourself, to contacting the city, to getting help from the experts, don’t let pigeons be a burden to your life. Contact the experts that can provide permanent solutions quickly.
At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we provide seamless pigeon control services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Let us help you solve your pigeon/bird problems. We can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for your pigeon removal needs.
by SOS Wildlife Control | Jun 23, 2015 | Animal Control, Bird Control
Last Updated: May 2016
Birds are opportunistic animals just like raccoons, squirrels, skunks and other wildlife who seek out their three primary needs – food, shelter and heat. The same needs as humans! This is often the reason you will find wildlife in your home, as you have met these needs and are seen as a resource. Birds being opportunistic will find a gap in your roof and enter your attic where it is also nice and quiet for them to nest. Even though birds are a nice sight, they can be a nuisance when they are nesting in your home or on your property. Not only do they create a lot of noise and leave a mess with their nesting materials, feathers and droppings but their droppings pose health risks and building nests in vents is a fire hazard!
The health risks of having birds on your property are due to the spores and germs in the feces which are released into the air. Inhaling these spores can lead to lung conditions or even meningitis.
Birds build their nests in vents, blocking them. Each year they continue to bring more material into the vent which increases the fire hazard risk. Damage to air conditioning equipment, industrial machines, insulation, roofs, fascia and soffits, and structural issues are often observed as a result of pest-birds, birds in vents in turn requiring bird control or bird removal. Getting the birds out and cleaning the droppings and removing hazard risks is essential. However as birds are a creature of habit, often returning to the same area over and over again, not only do you need bird removal Toronto you need to wildlife proof these areas too.
Before touching the birds or the nest you need to check the law. In Ontario most birds, including their nests and eggs are protected under law – The Migratory Bird Treaty. But depending on the type of bird, different rules apply. You may need approval from the Ministry of Natural Resources before removing a nest or eggs.
There are three birds indigenous to North America that are considered nuisance pests and are not protected under law. They are the Sparrow, Starling and Pigeon. For other bird species you can check the Ministry’s website for more information.
Bird Removal Toronto / Bird Prevention
The most common practice for bird removal Toronto in the wildlife control field is to use deterrents. The most commonly used and effective solutions are deterrents like bird spikes, netting, scare devices shock tracts and trapping. The most common tactic used is bird spikes.
Bird Spikes
Bird spikes are installed upon flat services where the birds nest like ledges and signs. Spikes are the most common used as they are durable and effective. The spikes don’t hurt the bird but make it impossible for them to land. Even though they may be an eye sore they are better than unsightly and unsanitary bird feces. Bird spikes are attached using a very strong adhesive so they are durable. Each spike strip can range from 3 inches to 7 inches depending on the area to be covered.
Bird Netting
Bird netting is used to exclude birds from much larger areas such as balconies or parking garages. Bird netting is extremely durable and can be expected to last many years. A stainless steel cable is attached around the perimeter of the area to be excluded and the net is attached using small steel rings. It is a permanent solution providing excellent control.
Shock Track
Shock track is a discreet bird deterrent system that has the advantage of deterring all species of birds. It employs an intermittent electric pulse which while unpleasant, does not injure birds in any way. The track is less than an inch in height so it is excellent in areas where aesthetics are important.
Trapping
There is an option to trap the animal and release them elsewhere, however birds are great navigators and can return. Using the one way door is our standard preferred method as trapping and removing is not a permanent solution. Trapping is used usually on larger buildings. One way doors are our preferred method rather than trapping and relocating. One way doors are specially designed doors which allow the animal to exit the property and not reenter.
To bird proof your home, the birds are first removed, the area is cleaned to remove all feces and then either the spikes, shock tracks or netting are attached.
Birds are a creature of habit, often returning to the same area again and again, not only do you remove the birds you need to wildlife proof these areas too
The best solution for your bird problem is a humane, cost effective permanent pest management strategy like any or the above. If you are unsure of the species you have you can call us and we can help you identify the bird. Birds are a nuisance to both businesses and home owners because of their tendency to roost and nest inside buildings. Birds nesting in a stove vent or attic is a significant nuisance and their ability to carry and spread disease is easily equal to that of rats. If you have Starlings, Pigeons or Sparrows, call us for bird removal Toronto on 647-994-9453.
