Birds are a natural part of the environment, and in most cases, they cause no harm. However, when they begin nesting in vents, chimneys, attics, or other parts of a property, they can become more than just a nuisance. Birds in unwanted areas often lead to property damage, unpleasant odors, health risks from droppings, and constant noise. When homeowners face this situation, the big question arises: should you hire a professional for bird removal, or attempt to do it yourself?
This decision depends on several factors, including the type of bird, where it’s nesting, the extent of the problem, and your own comfort level with handling wildlife. Let’s break down both approaches to help you decide which option is best for your situation.
The Challenges of Bird Removal
Before weighing the two choices, it’s important to understand why bird removal is not as simple as it may seem. Birds are protected species in many areas, which means removing them improperly could result in fines. In addition, some species are aggressive when protecting their nests, while others carry diseases through droppings or parasites.
Birds may also cause hidden damage: clogging ventilation systems, chewing on insulation, or blocking chimneys, all of which can lead to costly repairs if not handled correctly.
Given these challenges, deciding between professional services and DIY attempts requires careful consideration.
DIY Bird Removal: Pros and Cons
Advantages of DIY
- Cost Savings
The most obvious reason people attempt DIY bird removal is to save money. Professional wildlife control services come with a price tag, and handling it yourself may seem more budget-friendly. - Immediate Action
With DIY methods, you don’t need to wait for an appointment. If a bird has just entered your home or garage, you may be able to guide it out quickly on your own. - Simple Cases
If a single bird has flown inside by accident and hasn’t started nesting, DIY removal is often enough. Using open doors or windows, bright lights, or gentle shooing techniques may safely resolve the problem.
Disadvantages of DIY
- Safety Risks
Birds can become aggressive if they feel threatened, especially when protecting their young. Climbing ladders, handling nests, or removing birds from vents can lead to injuries. - Legal Concerns
Many bird species are protected under local or federal laws. Without knowledge of regulations, you could unintentionally break the law by removing or harming them. - Health Hazards
Bird droppings can carry serious diseases like histoplasmosis, psittacosis, and salmonella. Nesting materials may also harbor mites and fleas, putting your household at risk. - Temporary Solution
DIY efforts often fail to address the root problem. Birds may return to the same spot if proper exclusion methods (like netting or vent covers) aren’t used.
Professional Bird Removal: Pros and Cons
Advantages of Hiring a Professional
- Expertise and Knowledge
Wildlife control specialists are trained to identify bird species, understand their behaviors, and comply with legal protections. They know how to remove birds safely, humanely, and legally. - Comprehensive Solutions
Professionals don’t just remove the birds—they also identify why they came in the first place. They provide exclusion solutions such as sealing entry points, installing screens, or applying deterrents to ensure the problem doesn’t recur. - Safety
Professionals use proper protective equipment to reduce health risks from droppings and nests. They also have tools and ladders designed for safe removal, reducing the risk of homeowner injury. - Long-Term Savings
While professional services come with an upfront cost, they can save money by preventing structural damage, reducing the chance of repeated infestations, and avoiding fines related to improper removal. - Peace of Mind
Knowing the problem is handled by experts allows homeowners to relax without worrying about hidden nests or recurring issues.
Disadvantages of Hiring a Professional
- Cost
Professional bird removal is more expensive than DIY. Prices vary depending on the type of bird, the extent of infestation, and the complexity of removal. - Scheduling Delays
You may have to wait for an appointment if local wildlife control services are busy, which can be frustrating if the problem feels urgent.
When DIY Might Work
There are limited cases where DIY bird removal may be appropriate:
- A single bird has accidentally flown inside and hasn’t built a nest.
- You notice birds starting to perch on your property but not nesting.
- You’re installing simple deterrents such as reflective tape, decoy predators, or noise devices.
In these cases, DIY solutions are quick, affordable, and effective.
When to Call a Professional
Hiring a professional is almost always the better choice when:
- Birds have nested in vents, chimneys, or attics.
- You’re dealing with large numbers of birds.
- The species is aggressive or legally protected.
- There’s significant property damage or health risks from droppings.
- You’ve tried DIY methods but birds keep returning.
In these scenarios, the risks and potential costs of DIY far outweigh the expense of professional removal.
Preventing Future Bird Problems
Whether you choose DIY or professional help, prevention is key. Here are some steps to reduce the chances of birds returning:
- Seal entry points: Cover vents, chimneys, and gaps with screens or caps.
- Remove food sources: Clean up outdoor crumbs, secure garbage bins, and avoid leaving pet food outside.
- Use deterrents: Reflective tape, fake owls, or sound devices can discourage birds from settling.
- Trim trees and shrubs: Birds often use overgrown greenery as nesting sites. Keeping it trimmed can make your property less attractive.
Final Thoughts
While DIY bird removal can work in simple situations, it often provides only a temporary fix and comes with risks to health, safety, and legality. On the other hand, professional bird removal services bring expertise, long-term solutions, and peace of mind. For most homeowners, especially when dealing with nests, infestations, or persistent problems, hiring a professional is the best choice.
If you’re unsure which approach to take, the safest step is to contact for bird removal services and discuss your situation with a qualified professional. They can evaluate the problem, explain your options, and help you decide on the most effective solution.
