Birds are fascinating beautiful creatures that play an essential role in our ecosystem. Many of us are aware of this but struggle with birds as pests when they enter our homes and places of business. In this article, we’ll discuss the types of birds common to Arizona, how birds can involuntarily create various issues, and what you can do to keep our feathered friends in their natural habitats and out of unwanted spaces.

Most Common Arizona Birds

Common species of birds found in Arizona include:

Robins
Woodpeckers
Finches such as the American Goldfinch and the house finch
Sparrows
Crows and blackbirds
Starlings
Wrens
Doves
Pigeons
Cardinals
Hummingbirds
Orioles
Many others.

Regardless of size, unique behaviors, characteristics, and the songs they sing, all of these birds can become expensive and potentially hazardous pests when left to their own devices without healthy countermeasures in place.

How Birds Can Involuntarily Destroy Property

It cannot be overstated how birds are a crucial part of the world we share with them. Purdue University published an article illustrating a few of their vital functions, such as providing down, pollinating plants, removing carcasses, regulating pest populations, and seed dispersal.

Unfortunately, many of these avian tasks can lead to health risks for us humans, economic problems, and even lawsuits. Below we’ll cover some of the critical issues that can make people regard birds as pests.

Property Damage

Rooves, drains, and gutters are popular locations for the common rock pigeon, starlings, and other birds to build their nests. Commercial sites such as warehouses are considered prime real estate for many species. These nests can act as dams and result in standing water. A lack of drainage means expensive repairs and even a potentially dangerous collapse over time.

Acidic Droppings

All bird droppings consist partially of uric acid that maintain pH levels between 3 and 4.5. Most industrial materials, especially metals, cannot tolerate these acidity levels. The result is that bird-poop eats through just about everything. Beyond damaging the aesthetics, it can corrode iron beams, wood, stone, and steel. Air conditioning equipment is particularly vulnerable to bird droppings.

Impaired Ventilation

Chimneys and other types of commercial and residential ventilation systems can be blocked similarly to drainage systems. This can create problems that range from increased electricity bills, limited air flow, and even poisoning by carbon monoxide in the case of an inhibited exhaust system.

Fire Hazards

Bird nests are constructed from twigs, grass, straw, and other debris. Kept in high and dry places means they are usually highly flammable. This is especially true when occupying electrical and construction sites.

Noise and Sanitation Issues

Different species offer different sounds. However, when some of the more tone-deaf occupants gather in large numbers, the noise can become a significant nuisance to the surrounding workers, buildings, and works to drive away customers.

A myriad of transmittable bird-borne diseases and parasites have been identified as dangerous and potentially lethal to humans. Droppings, specifically when dried, transmit various microorganisms through inhalation. Airborne bacteria from bird droppings that come into contact with food consumed by humans can cause disease.

How You Can Keep Birds Out Of Your Home

Low-impact methods are best for driving birds from your property while protecting the animal’s overall well-being. Solutions such as sticky waterproof gel can be used on surfaces that appear as attractive nesting sites. However, these measures can be tedious and typically require a thorough examination of roofs, HVAC systems, and all the nooks and crannies that birds like to take shelter within.
Hiring professional services is the surest and fastest way to handle bird-related pest issues responsibly. SOS Exterminating has been serving Arizona since 1937 with residential pest treatments catered to you and your home’s needs. If you’d like to get in touch with us, you can reach us through our contact page, or call us now to receive a free quote.