April showers bring May flowers—and also nesting birds. For most of us in North America, April is the month where birds build nests that will last all season. We’ve observed and removed hundreds of birds and nests over the years. Here are three kernels of wisdom the experts at Meridian Bird Removal would like to share with you this season.
Your building is just as attractive to birds as a tree.
Why do birds fly into your building instead of staying outside in their natural habitat? Birds generally look for four things when choosing a place to nest—food, water, shelter, and protection from predators. Your building is certainly more insulated from predators than your average tree. And there’s no denying it provides ample shelter from rain and the elements. It’s also as close or closer to water sources—think of all the standing water you see in parking lots, on rooftops, and around drainage systems. And if you carry inventories of seed or food products? Congratulations! You provide invading birds with everything they need.
Nesting birds will tear up your merchandise.
When birds nest build nests, they use whatever materials are at hand. In the woods, those materials would be twigs, grass, and other vegetation. If birds are nesting in your building, though, they will use anything and everything they can find nearby. Meridian has removed nests composed of:
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- Twine
- Twist ties
- Rope and string
- Pet hair
- Fruit stems, skins, and leaves
- Batting and stuffing
- Leaves and stems from hanging plants
- Cut flowers
- Straw
- Crafts items like wreaths
- Pine shavings
- Paintbrush bristles
- Trash
With the exception of trash and pet hair, inventory had to be destroyed or damaged to acquire these materials. That means loss for the store and a diminished customer experience.
You shouldn’t wait to call Meridian.
Some managers wait to “collect” multiple birds before calling Meridian. Don’t! The more established nesting birds are, the harder they are to remove.
And birds are already becoming entrenched. English sparrows and other non-migratory birds are already building nests. We started removing them in March.
Finally, you want to remove birds before they finish their nests. In fact, federally protected birds (and there are a lot of them) cannot be removed once they have laid eggs. Wait too long and you may be stuck with them for a while!
So as soon as you see a bird in your building, call Meridian so we can take action before the nesting begins.
Meridian can help.
Meridian has the experience and expertise to remove nests. We have found the best solution is a combination of physically removing the birds, a full inspection of your facility, and partnering to help prevent future bird issues.
Read some case studies to see how we have assisted in bird and nest removal:
Want to learn more? Download this helpful flyer here.