Signs You Have Birds in Your Attic

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Birdsong in the morning can be a lovely sound… unless it’s coming from inside your own home. Having birds in your attic isn’t just an annoying wakeup call, but it can also put you and your family at risk of serious diseases. Knowing the early signs of an infestation is important to treating the problem quickly, so here are some helpful tips for determining whether birds are settling into your home—and what you should do if they are.

Do I Have Birds in My Attic?

Birds nesting in your attic can be more than just a nuisance; they can cause damage to your home and pose health risks to you and your family. It’s essential to be aware of the signs that birds have taken up residence in your attic so you can spot infestations quickly. Some of the most common signs you may have birds in the attic include:

• Scratching Noises: Scratching or rustling sounds are common with several types of pests, including rodents and birds. That said, larger species like pigeons or starlings can make quite a racket as they move around and build their nests.
• Chirping or Cooing Sounds: If you hear loud chirping or cooing sounds, especially during the early morning or evening hours, it could be a sign that birds have made a nest in your attic. These vocalizations are often a way for birds to communicate with each other or with their young.
• Visible Nesting Materials: Take a look in your attic for any signs of nesting materials such as twigs, leaves, feathers, or even bits of trash. Birds will gather materials to build their nests, and spotting these items in your attic is a clear indication of their presence.
• Bird Droppings: Another unmistakable sign of birds in your attic is the presence of bird droppings. These droppings can accumulate quickly and may be found on the floor, walls, or rafters of your attic. Not only are bird droppings unsightly and foul-smelling, but they can also carry diseases and attract other pests.
• Damaged Insulation or Wiring: Birds may damage insulation or wiring in your attic as they build their nests or search for materials. If you notice shredded insulation or chewed-up wiring, it could be a sign that birds are nesting in your attic and causing structural damage.
• Entry Points: Inspect the exterior of your home for any potential entry points where birds could gain access to your attic. These might include damaged roof tiles, gaps in the eaves, or open vents. Birds are opportunistic creatures and will take advantage of any openings to find shelter.

Why Bird Infestations Are Dangerous

While birds may seem harmless, having them nesting in your attic can be a major problem. From tearing up insulation and pecking through electrical wiring to creating unsanitary conditions with their droppings, birds can cause unsanitary and unsafe conditions in your home. Infestations have been linked to the spread of several diseases, including:

• Histoplasmosis
• Salmonellosis
• Tuberculosis
• Escherichiosis

What to Do If You Have Birds in Your Attic

Knowing that birds are nesting in your attic can be a stressful situation. Your first instinct may be to try and shoo them out on your own, but approaching them could unintentionally expose you to unsanitary and unsafe situations. Some birds could even become aggressive if they feel threatened. Additionally, with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, removal attempts may be illegal without the correct permitting.

Instead, it’s highly recommended to enlist the help of a licensed and experienced bird removal company. These professionals have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to safely and humanely remove birds from your attic without causing harm to the birds or risking your safety. They can assess the situation, identify entry points, and implement effective strategies to remove the birds and prevent them from returning.

Bird Removal Services in the Pacific Northwest

Summit Pest Management is a fully licensed bird removal company that has proudly served the Pacific Northwest for many years. With years of experience in the field, our team is dedicated to providing prompt and reliable service to homeowners dealing with bird infestations. Using industry-leading techniques and eco-friendly products, we can safely remove birds from your attic and implement preventative measures to safeguard your property long into the future. To learn more about our process or schedule an appointment, call our team today!