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      The Buzz

      Get all of your UK pest control updates here at The Buzz!

      The BuzzHow to Deter Birds From Your Property

      August 26, 2025

      How to Deter Birds From Your Property

      Birds are an essential part of our natural world, but when they start causing damage, spreading disease, or turning your building into a nesting ground, they quickly become a serious problem. If you’re wondering how to deter birds from your home or business, we have the solutions.

      Why Are Birds Considered Pests?

      Not all birds are pests. But some, like feral pigeons and urban gulls, have adapted to city life in ways that can be problematic. Nesting in building crevices, fouling on pavements, damaging rooftops, and disturbing peace with aggressive behaviour are just a few of the challenges they present.

      In fact, bird-related issues are behind a growing number of insurance claims each year. From blocked gutters to the transmission of diseases like salmonellosis and ornithosis, the risks are far more than just cosmetic.

      Common Pest Birds in the UK

      Pigeons

      Feral pigeons —also known as rock doves, are commonly found nesting on ledges, eaves, rooftops, and under bridges. They breed year-round when food sources are available, which means a minor issue can quickly escalate into a large infestation. Pigeons are monogamous, typically mating for life, and can produce multiple broods annually. This leads to rapid population growth in urban areas. One of the major concerns with pigeons is the accumulation of guano (droppings). Each bird can produce 12–14 kg of guano per year, which is highly acidic.

      Gulls

      Species like herring gulls and lesser black-backed gulls are notorious for their noise and aggression, especially during breeding season. Gulls can also damage bin bags, spread litter, and even swoop at people when defending their young. They are highly territorial and will often return to the same nesting site year after year—a behaviour known as site fidelity.

      What Problems Can Birds Cause?

        • Health risks: Droppings can harbour pathogens that cause serious illnesses such as psittacosis and cryptococcosis.
        • Infestations: Bird nests often attract other pests like mites, fleas, and beetles.
        • Damage to buildings: Pecking, fouling, and nesting can compromise building materials and lead to costly repairs.
        • Slip hazards: Fouling on pavements, fire escapes, and stairways can put the public at risk.
        • Noise and aggression: Gulls in particular can be territorial and disruptive.

      Bird Deterrents That Work

      At Vergo, we use a wide range of bird management systems, tailored to the building type and severity of infestation. These include:

      • Netting – Physical exclusion that prevents birds from roosting or nesting in protected areas.
      • Spikes & Wire Systems – Prevent perching on ledges and rooftops.
      • Laser & Sound Deterrents – State-of-the-art systems that discourage birds through light and audio cues.
      • Electric Deterrents & Repellent Gels – Subtle systems that condition birds to avoid surfaces without harm.
      • Egg and Nest Removal – In specific cases, where legally permitted, we humanely remove nests to reduce the return rate.

      Every installation is handled by our dedicated, nationally deployed team of bird-proofing experts, all certified and trained in health and safety to work safely at height and on sensitive sites.

      What You Can Do to Help

      • Don’t feed birds – Pigeon populations grow in proportion to food availability. Feeding birds can also attract rats.
      • Keep bin bags secure – Gulls often tear open bags to get at food waste.
      • Close external doors – Prevent birds from entering storage spaces or buildings.
      • Avoid DIY cleaning – Bird fouling can contain harmful pathogens. Use professional services equipped with proper PPE.

      Need Help? Call Us

      Bird proofing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our technicians will survey your site, recommend the best solutions, and provide long-term deterrents tailored to your premises. From commercial properties to listed buildings and residential homes, we’re here to help you stay bird-free.

      Get in touch to book a site survey today with Vergo Pest Management, your nationwide bird control specialists.

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