Bird activity inside your commercial facility can quickly escalate from a nuisance to a costly disruption. If you’ve found a bird nest in your building, it’s critical to take the right steps to protect your operations, maintain a safe environment, and avoid legal or regulatory issues.
Here’s what to do if you discover a bird nest in your commercial facility.
1. Do Not Disturb the Nest
It’s important to know that many bird species are protected under federal and state laws, including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means interfering with active nests—those containing eggs or hatchlings—can result in fines or legal action.
If you spot a nest, do not attempt to move or remove it. Disturbing an active nest can also increase bird activity, as adult birds become agitated and more aggressive in defense of their nesting area.
2. Assess the Location and Safety Risks
Determine where the nest is located and how it impacts your operations. Common nesting areas in buildings include:
- Vents and HVAC units
- Rafters and beams in warehouses
- Overhangs and loading docks
- Signage or ledges near entrances
Nests in or near high-traffic areas can create slip-and-fall hazards from droppings or trigger health concerns from airborne pathogens. If the nest is close to equipment, it may interfere with mechanical systems or airflow.
3. Limit Access to the Area
Once the nest is identified, limit employee and customer access to the area if possible. Use temporary signage or barriers to keep people safe and avoid escalating the situation with increased human presence. This step also helps reduce liability in the event someone becomes injured or ill due to exposure.
4. Document the Situation
Take detailed notes and photos of the nest, including the location, size, and signs of activity. This information is helpful for any follow-up reporting, inspections, or coordination with wildlife professionals. Knowing what kind of birds are nesting can also determine your next steps once the nest is no longer active.
5. Call a Professional for Assessment
Once you’ve confirmed the presence of a bird nest in your building, it’s time to contact a commercial bird removal company. Experts can monitor the nest until it’s inactive and advise you on safe, lawful options for permanent removal. We can also identify things that attract birds to your facility, such as food waste, open entry points, or structural features.
6. Plan for Long-Term Prevention
After the nest has been vacated and professionally removed, develop a proactive plan to prevent future bird activity. This might include regular facility inspections, sealing access points, or modifying maintenance schedules to remove debris or leftover food.
Avoid using physical or chemical methods that claim to keep birds away. These often fail in large buildings and can lead to compliance issues or increased liability.
Finding a bird nest in your building can feel like a small issue—but ignoring it can lead to health risks, property damage, and even legal consequences. By taking prompt, informed action and consulting with professionals, your facility can stay safe, compliant, and bird-free.
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