When you notice birds nesting in your attic, chimney, or around your property, it can feel overwhelming. The instinct might be to try and remove them yourself. But in Texas, bird control is far more complicated than it seems. Many of the species people refer to as “nuisance birds” are actually protected under federal law. Removing them without the right knowledge and permits can result in legal trouble.
Here’s what you need to know about getting rid of birds on your property, why professional help is critical, and what you can do to prevent birds from nesting on your property in the first place.
Why Professional Bird Removal Is Necessary
Simply put, removing birds is a complex job. It requires knowledge of the law, safe handling practices, and long-term prevention strategies.
At first glance, birds may not seem like much of a threat. But once they decide to nest in your home or business, they can bring noise, droppings, and significant disease risks. Bird droppings can carry over 60 transmissible diseases, including histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and salmonellosis.
Their nests can also cause serious issues, from corrosive droppings that stain and degrade building materials to nesting materials that clog gutters, leading to water damage and creating serious fire hazards.
Professionals have the tools to remove birds and their nests safely. More importantly, they can determine whether the birds are protected and whether their nests are active — 54% of bird-related calls in Texas involve migratory birds, which require a very specific and legally compliant approach.
Protected vs. Unprotected Birds in Texas
When it comes to bird removal, everything depends on the species. Some can be removed quickly with professional techniques, while others require careful timing and patience.
Federally Protected Migratory Birds
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) protects nearly all native birds in the U.S. If a nest contains eggs or babies, it cannot legally be disturbed until the birds leave on their own. Common examples of protected birds in Texas include:
- Chimney swifts: These are often found nesting inside chimneys, creating loud chattering sounds. Their unique nests are constructed from twigs held together by a glue-like saliva.
- Barn swallows: These are recognizable by their mud nests built under eaves and bridges. Their cup-shaped mud nests can deface and stain siding, while their droppings accumulate in large piles on the ground below.
- Purple martins: These are a favorite among bird enthusiasts, but problematic when they nest in structures.
These birds require patience and proper timing for removal. Professionals can monitor the nest and act once it becomes inactive. Preventive deterrents are the best way to prevent future problems.
Unprotected Nuisance Birds
Non-native species are considered invasive and can typically be removed at any time of year. The main unprotected birds in Texas are:
- European starlings: These aggressive birds displace native species and nest in vents and cavities.
- House sparrows: These are small but invasive, often squeezing into building gaps.
- Pigeons: Also called rock doves, these are known for heavy dropping and roosting in urban areas.
Removal and exclusion methods can typically address these species immediately, making them less complicated than migratory species.
Understanding the Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 is the federal law that governs bird removal in the U.S. It was designed to protect declining bird populations by banning unregulated hunting and trapping. Today, it applies to over 1,000 species, including most of the birds Texans encounter around their homes. Under the MBTA, it is illegal to:
- Pursue, hunt, capture, or kill protected birds.
- Remove or destroy their nests, eggs, or feathers.
- Possess or sell any part of the protected bird.
Violating this law can result in steep fines and penalties. A violation of the MBTA is a misdemeanor charge that can result in fines of up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail. That’s why even well-meaning homeowners who try to remove birds on their own can end up facing legal consequences.
Professional wildlife removal companies are trained to navigate these laws and ensure every removal is legal, safe, and responsible.
The Waiting Period for Protected Nests
The process of moving bird nests is complicated. Unfortunately, if the nest belongs to a protected bird and contains eggs or babies, it cannot be moved. Wildlife professionals must wait until the young birds have grown strong enough to leave the nest naturally and permanently. This waiting period is usually around two months, though it can vary by species.
Once the nest is no longer active, it can be legally removed. It’s also legal to seal the entry point and install long-term deterrents to discourage future nesting.
This process may require patience, but it’s the only legal and responsible way to handle protected bird species.
Long-Term Bird Prevention Strategies
While removal solves the immediate problem, prevention is the real key to avoiding repeat issues. Birds are creatures of habit. If they’ve found a good nesting spot, they’ll likely come back year after year unless proactive measures are taken. Consider a few professional-grade deterrents trusted by property owners nationwide.
Bird Netting
A heavy-duty netting system creates a physical barrier, blocking birds from accessing rafters, ledgers, eaves, and other open areas. Netting is ideal for sealing off balconies, courtyards, loading docks, and spaces under large awnings without affecting the look of the building. It’s nearly invisible from a distance.
Optical Gel Discs
Optical Gel is a discreet, multisensory deterrent that makes birds believe an area is unsafe. While the discs are harmless, they look like fire or smoke to birds’ eyes. They also emit a peppermint oil scent, which birds dislike, and are sticky to the touch.
Chimney Caps
A professionally installed chimney cap is the best way to keep birds from your chimney long-term. In addition to keeping out birds, a professional-grade cap also blocks other wildlife, like raccoons and squirrels, and debris like leaves and twigs that can pose a fire risk.
Found a Bird Nest? Contact the Experts
If you’ve discovered birds nesting in your home, the next step is clear — call a professional. With so many legal protections in place, the safest choice is to have experts identify the species and determine the correct, legal solution.
Don’t take the risk of handling birds yourself. Contact Urban Jungle Wildlife Removal to schedule a consultation.
