How to Get a Hawk Out of a Building: A Guide for Commercial Facilities

Finding a hawk inside your commercial building can be both startling and disruptive. Whether the bird entered through a loading dock, skylight, or open door, the key is to act quickly, carefully, and legally. If you’re wondering how to get a hawk out of a building, this guide will walk you through the steps to take and why professional help is often essential.

Why Hawks Enter Commercial Buildings

Hawks typically find their way indoors by accident—often in pursuit of prey like sparrows. Large commercial spaces like warehouses, airports, shopping centers, and manufacturing facilities provide easy access through high ceilings and open entry points. Once inside, hawks can become disoriented and anxious, making them harder to remove without escalating the situation.

First Steps: How to Get a Hawk Out of a Building Safely

Clear the Area
Start by moving employees and customers away from the area where the hawk is flying or perched. These birds are not typically aggressive, but when stressed, they may react unpredictably.
Contain the Bird
If possible, close doors or install temporary barriers to restrict the hawk to one section of the building. This limits its movement and makes the removal process more manageable.
Create a Safe Exit Path
Turn off interior lights and open nearby windows, skylights, or doors. Hawks are naturally drawn to light and fresh air, so providing a clearly visible exit may help the bird leave on its own.
Eliminate Attractants
Secure trash bins and remove small birds, rodents, or food debris that may have drawn the hawk inside. Reducing these attractants decreases the chance the hawk will stay.

When to Call a Professional

If the hawk does not leave quickly, avoid trying to capture or chase it yourself. Hawks are federally protected and must be handled in compliance with wildlife regulations. Mishandling can lead to fines, injuries, or harm to the bird.

Instead, contact a professional bird removal service experienced in dealing with large birds of prey. These specialists understand how to remove hawks safely using industry-approved techniques tailored to large, open indoor spaces.

Preventing Future Intrusions

Once the hawk has been removed, take proactive steps to keep other birds from entering:

Inspect Entry Points: Regularly check for broken windows, damaged roof vents, or other openings that could allow birds inside.
Educate Staff: Train your team to close overhead doors and report any signs of bird activity inside or near the building.
Schedule Routine Assessments: Work with a bird control expert to assess your property and recommend long-term strategies that align with your operational needs.

Knowing how to get a hawk out of a building is essential for any business that operates in large commercial spaces. Acting quickly and responsibly protects your people, your property, and the bird. For situations that can’t be resolved with simple exits or redirection, professional removal is the safest and most effective solution. If you’re currently dealing with a hawk or other bird of prey inside your building, contact our commercial bird removal team today.

Here are more resources on How to Get a Hawk Out of a Building Safely:

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Why Hawks Enter Commercial Buildings

First Steps: How to Get a Hawk Out of a Building Safely

When to Call a Professional

Preventing Future Intrusions