Pigeons and English Sparrows

Pigeons and English Sparrows (aka House Sparrows, English House Sparrows, or Moineau Domestique) are two of the more troublesome pest birds for institutions in urban environments and in small rural communities.

These birds adapt well to man-made environments where they are able to nest and roost. Nesting materials along roof edges can clog gutters, downspouts and air intakes. Clogged gutters and downspouts can, in turn, cause moisture problems in buildings, attracting other destructive pests, like termites and silverfish. And birds’ nests alone, even those which aren’t causing blockage issues, are known to harbor many museum pests such as: psocopterans, beetles (especially Dermestidae), mites, and moths (including clothes moths). All of these pests will feed on museum specimens!

Bird fecal droppings can deface and damage buildings and statues, and the fecal droppings of particular species may carry diseases such as histoplasmosis, encephalitis, pigeon ornithosis, Newcastle disease, crytococosis, toxoplasmosis, pseudo-tuberculosis, pigeon coccidiosis, and salmonella food poisoning. Further, some of the ectoparasites of pigeons, such as chewing lice, fleas, ticks and mites, can transfer to people. While a live bird’s presence and activities pose immediate threats to collections and building interiors/exteriors, bird carcasses are also highly problematic, as they can trigger still more pest infestation (by, for example, webbing clothes moths or dermestids, like carpet beetles). This Case Study shared by Christina Cain from the Denver Museum of Art illustrates what can happen when an infestation derived from a bird carcass strikes.

Identification

Visit Cornell’s All About Birds online bird guide for more information on specific bird species, their habitats, behaviors, and identification tips.

Many species of birds are federally and/or locally protected. Be sure to work with the appropriate pest or wildlife removal company to ensure that you follow legal guidelines in dealing with avian pests.

Signs of Infestation

Often the first signs of infestation are the birds themselves. Many species (and often the nestlings  especially) are very vocal throughout the day and are conspicuous in their habits. Noisy nesting birds may even be heard through interior walls.

Signs that birds may be nesting in the nooks and crannies of building may include:

• Nesting materials (for example, feathers, twigs, grasses, scraps of paper, mud, etc.) tucked around discrete spots on the exterior of the building, for example: along ledges, roof edges, or soffits
• Concentrated areas of fecal material on the ground around or on the sides of buildings
• Entrance holes where birds can be seen entering and exiting cavities
• Birds seen transporting nesting materials to and fro

Control and Treatment

The most effective control and treatments rely upon exclusion techniques – especially for deterring nesting birds. As part of any exclusion plan, existing nests should be removed and any holes or crevices in external building structures should be filled or closed off. Control is most effective when preventing birds’ access to safe/easy nesting spots in and on buildings.

Various bird deterrents are commercially available. These deterrents operate in several different ways, and researching which methods work best for which type of birds, or birds of your area may prove prudent.

• Chimney caps, dampers, and mesh gutter covers discourage nesting and bird activity.
• Bird spikes can help as a landing/nesting deterrent, but they require maintenance (such as removing nesting material that may be deposited on top of the spikes). Spikes may not entirely eliminate bird dropping issues. Most pest companies will not install spikes without a maintenance contract attached to the installation of these spikes. Potential locations for spike installation may include parapet walls, roof lines, ledges, sills, eaves, etc.
• Bird deterrent wires are a sleek almost invisible way to prevent birds from perching/nesting. These cost more upfront, but are more effective than spikes and present a much cleaner/more minimal aesthetic. These should not require a service maintenance contract.
• Sound, air, or water delivery devices are available. These are, however, rarely used near museum settings, and certain birds can become inured to these methods of deterrence.
• Ultrasonic bird control devices properly mounted can be useful in loading dock situations to run birds out of large spaces.
• Aromatic bird repellents can also be a good option in certain situations to repel birds, although they are not useful for nesting birds and existing infestations.  They repel rock dove and domestic pigeons, starlings, gulls, blackbirds including grackles, cliff swallows, English sparrows, house finch, American crow, in addition to migratory waterfowl like Canada Geese.

Food Sources

While many birds eat seeds, berries, and insects, others like the House Sparrow and Pigeon have adapted to eat almost any grain product and will thrive on handouts of bread, crackers, and snack foods. Posting signs for patrons to NOT feed birds is another possible control technique.

Created 2017, Updated 2022

Woodpeckers

Woodpeckers can be found wherever there are trees: woodlands, farmland, suburbs, and city parks. They hammer into buildings and old trees to attract mates, establish and defend territory, access food (insects), or create nesting and roosting sites. These nesting and roosting cavities, created by hammering into siding, wooden shingles, insulation, and gutters, are often later enlarged by other pest animals such as squirrels, raccoons, and other birds, for their own nesting purposes. Thus, in addition to causing structural damage to buildings, woodpecker cavities may attract a host of other pest animals.

Identification

See Cornell Labs for ID more information on woodpecker species: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/search

Signs of Infestation

Woodpecker activity can be identified via both visual and auditory clues. Visible indicators include holes in wooden structures (siding, eaves, trees, etc.). Woodpecker holes are typically round and vary in size depending on the species of woodpecker. Additionally, wood chips or bark scattered around the base of trees or structures may be a sign of woodpecker activity. The clearest auditory signals of woodpecker activity are the drumming sounds produced by a woodpecker’s hammering on wood.

Control and Treatment

Many species of birds are federally and/or locally protected. Be sure to work with the appropriate pest or wildlife removal company to ensure that you follow legal guidelines in dealing with avian pests.

Successful control of woodpecker damage relies on taking action as early as possible after the identification of an issue.

If woodpeckers are actively causing damage to your building in search of insects or a food source, eliminate the attracting insects/remove the underlying food source.

No matter the cause for the presence of woodpeckers, exclusion can prevent them from hammering your building. Timely repair of any large holes may encourage woodpeckers to leave as well as discouraging other woodpeckers from drilling. Covering holes with aluminum flashing/sheet metal and painting them to match siding is a quick and affordable repair option. Affected areas can also be covered with either plastic bird netting or wire mesh. Install this type of covering a few inches proud of the wood surface (if attached directly to the wood, woodpeckers may just peck through the mesh). Plan to leave exclusion materials in place for several weeks, as it may take time for the woodpeckers to move on, and be prepared to quickly install additional exclusion material if the bird moves on to hammering another section of the building.

Harassment is another approach to control, but one that requires persistence. You may need to frighten or harass the birds multiple times every day for several weeks. Some woodpeckers will be frightened away by loud noises (eg: banging pots and pans, yelling, or recordings of screaming birds of prey). Large, dark-colored hawk silhouette mobiles (hawks should be about 22” x 11”), can be constructed from weather-resistant materials and hung near the affected areas with monofilament line. Shiny, reflective foil strips and pinwheels can also be used as woodpecker deterrents. Use two or more of the above harassment devices simultaneously and move harassment devices to different locations somewhat regularly if possible.

Nesting boxes may be worth trying when other methods fail. Place nest boxes on buildings near woodpecker damage. Different species will require different sized and shaped nesting boxes. Fill the box with sawdust to encourage woodpeckers to want to clear it out, as removing the sawdust can make the bird think that it is constructing a genuine nest cavity, as put some nuts and seed atop the sawdust to attract the birds to the box.

Food Sources

Woodpeckers are primarily insectivores, eating a variety of insects like ants,  larvae, beetles, and wood-boring insects. Other woodpecker food sources may include nuts, seeds, fruit, and berries, especially via seed and suet feeders. Yellow-bellied sapsuckers will additionally feed on sap from trees.

Created 2017, Updated 2022

European Starlings

European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are medium-sized birds native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa but have been introduced to various parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in diverse habitats, from urban areas to agricultural landscapes. While admired for their complex vocalizations and stunning murmurations, where large flocks twist and turn in synchronized flight, European starlings can become a nuisance due to their propensity to form large roosting and nesting colonies. Their aggressive behavior towards native bird species, consumption of crops and fruits, and accumulation of droppings in urban areas and agricultural fields contribute to their status as pests. Additionally, their presence near airports poses safety hazards by increasing the risk of bird strikes with aircraft. Managing European starling populations often involves implementing control measures to mitigate their impact on agriculture, ecosystems, and public health and safety.

Identification

European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are medium-sized songbirds with a distinctive appearance. They have glossy black plumage with iridescent green and purple highlights, which can appear speckled or spotted, especially during the breeding season. Their bills are sharp and yellow during the breeding season, transitioning to a dark color outside of breeding. In flight, their wings appear short and pointed, and they often fly in tight, synchronized flocks. European starlings have a relatively short tail compared to their body size. Their vocalizations are varied and include a range of whistles, clicks, and squawks. These characteristics help distinguish European starlings from other similar-looking birds, particularly when observed in urban or agricultural settings where they are commonly found.

Signs of Infestation

The first signs of a problem are usually sightings of the birds themselves, including large flocks congregating nearby in urban areas, parks, agricultural fields, and other open spaces. These birds are highly social and tend to roost and nest in large numbers, resulting in a noise disturbance, particularly during dawn and dusk. Visible indicators of infestation include the accumulation of droppings around roosting sites, which are not only aesthetically undesirable, but can also pose health risks. Additionally, damage to crops, fruits, and ornamental plants caused by foraging starlings may signify an infestation in agricultural or residential areas. Their aggressive behavior towards native bird species can also disrupt local ecosystems. Implementing deterrent measures such as exclusion techniques or habitat modification may be necessary to manage European starling populations and mitigate associated issues.

Control and Treatment

Many species of birds are federally and/or locally protected. Be sure to work with the appropriate pest or wildlife removal company to ensure that you follow legal guidelines in dealing with avian pests.

The most effective control and treatment technique is often exclusion, such as preventing starlings from accessing areas where they might nest or roost by using physical barriers such as bird netting, bird spikes, or mesh screens. This is particularly effective for protecting agricultural crops, orchards, and buildings. Control is most effective when preventing birds’ access to safe/easy nesting spots in and on buildings. Modify the habitat to make it less attractive to European Starlings. This can include removing sources of food such as open garbage containers, securing livestock feed, and sealing off openings in buildings where starlings might nest.

Various bird deterrents are commercially available. These deterrents operate in several different ways, and researching which methods work best for which type of birds, or birds of your area may prove prudent.

• Chimney caps, dampers, and mesh gutter covers discourage nesting and bird activity.
• Bird spikes can help as a landing/nesting deterrent, but they require maintenance (such as removing nesting material that may be deposited on top of the spikes). Spikes may not entirely eliminate bird dropping issues. Most pest companies will not install spikes without a maintenance contract attached to the installation of these spikes. Potential locations for spike installation may include parapet walls, roof lines, ledges, sills, eaves, etc. 
• Bird deterrent wires are a sleek almost invisible way to prevent birds from perching/nesting. These cost more upfront, but are more effective than spikes and present a much cleaner/more minimal aesthetic. These should not require a service maintenance contract.   
• Sound, air, or water delivery devices are available. These are, however, rarely used near museum settings, and certain birds can become inured to these methods of deterrence.
• Ultrasonic bird control devices properly mounted can be useful in loading dock situations to run birds out of large spaces.  
• Aromatic bird repellents can also be a good option in certain situations to repel birds, although they are not useful for nesting birds and existing infestations.  They repel rock dove and domestic pigeons, starlings, gulls, blackbirds including grackles, cliff swallows, English sparrows, house finch, American crow, in addition to migratory waterfowl like Canada Geese. 

It’s important to note that while control measures can help manage European Starling populations, complete eradication is often not feasible or desired. Therefore, the goal is usually to minimize their proximity to collections structures and museum spaces.  Additionally, control efforts should be conducted in an ethical and humane manner, ensuring that non-target species are not harmed in the process.

Food Sources

European starlings are opportunistic feeders with a diverse diet that varies based on availability and habitat. Their food sources include insects, fruits, seeds, grains, and human food waste.

Created 2017, Updated 2022

Canada Geese

The Canada Goose (branta canadensis) is a large, migratory waterfowl native to North America. They easily adapt to a variety of habitats, often congregating in parks, golf courses, airport tarmacs, and urban areas with open water. They can become a nuisance due to their large populations, prolific droppings, and aggressive behavior towards humans during nesting season.

Identification

See Cornell Labs ID website for more information on the Canada Goose: 

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Canada_Goose/

Signs of Infestation

There are several signs of a potential Canada Goose problem, the two most notable being the presence of large flocks of the birds accompanied by extensive droppings, and the discovery of several nesting sites (identifiable by large nests made from grasses and twigs found concealed along shorelines). Threats to human health posed by goose droppings, as well as aesthetic issues posed by the same, and conflicts with humans are the main problems caused by large numbers of Canada Geese.

Control and Treatment

Canada Geese are protected on the federal and state level within the United States. Be sure to work with the appropriate pest or wildlife removal company to ensure that you follow legal guidelines in dealing with avian pests.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has an extensive guide to dealing with geese: https://extapps.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/geeseproblem.pdf 

and Cornell Cooperative Extension has a guide specific to managing geese in urban environments: https://ecommons.cornell.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/918dbe4e-6a34-4eef-beb4-5818e59e762b/content 

Managing the Canada Goose can be challenging, but deterrence is often the most effective strategy.

Altering the environment to make it less attractive to geese can help manage their populations. This may include installing fences to discourage nesting, reducing open water sources, and limiting the availability of food/implementing feeding restriction regulations.

Deterring geese through the use of harassment techniques may be another option and may include using trained dogs to chase geese away, or employing noise-making devices or visual scaring deterrents.

A scent-based repellent can also be applied to lawns to discourage geese from grazing. The active ingredient is a human-safe food flavoring derived from grapes, making the grass unappealing to geese.

Improving natural habitats and creating alternative nesting sites away from human-occupied areas can help manage geese populations by providing them with suitable habitats while reducing conflicts with humans.

It’s important to note that managing Canada geese often requires a multifaceted approach that takes into account ecological, social, and ethical considerations. Collaboration between wildlife management professionals, government agencies, and local communities is key to implementing successful management strategies.

Food Sources

The Canada Goose eats a wide variety of plant material, including stems and shoots of grasses, aquatic plants, seeds, berries, and grains. Occasionally they will eat some insects, small fish, or other small aquatic animals.

Created 2017, Updated 2022