In Australia, you often hear birds nesting in roofs. This is common. Their sounds can range from soft steps to loud squawks. These nests are fascinating for wildlife enthusiasts, however, they can also trouble homeowners.
Knowing which birds might nest in your roof is important. Once you know the birds, you can take the right steps to kindly and legally get rid of them.
Some of these feathered friends are from around here, while others originate from another country.
Indian Mynas, also known as Common Mynas, originally from South Asia are an invasive species in Australia, and they nest in roofs, tree hollows, or other sheltered spots, using twigs and feathers for their nests. These birds are known for their aggressive behaviour and adaptability. They are noisy with a loud call as well.
Common Starlings assert their dominance as another invasive species in Australia, renowned for their striking iridescent feathers and impressive mimicry skills. They frequently choose to create their nests in roof cavities, gutters, and other concealed spaces. Starlings gather in big groups and build nests from twigs and plants.
Welcome Swallows confidently display their graceful flight and distinctive blue-black plumage. They meticulously construct their nests using mud, grass, and feathers, often affixing them to walls or under eaves. Typically nesting in spring and summer, welcome Swallows are generally more peaceful compared to some invasive species.
House Sparrows are a familiar sight in Australia, despite their non-native status—originally introduced from Europe. These small birds, with brown and grey plumage, boldly select roofs, eaves, and other sheltered spots for nesting. Their nests are fashioned from twigs, feathers, and soft materials, allowing them to breed throughout the year.
Pigeons are everywhere and they need no introduction. And whoever had to deal with them on their own property, knows how hard it is to deter them. They can nest in your roof, gutters, not to mention under solar panels. The mess pigeons leave behind is unavoidable, and the smell is indescribable.
Seagulls, particularly Silver Gulls, confidently inhabit coastal areas of Australia. They frequently construct their nests on flat rooftops, beaches, or other open spaces. Comprised of sticks, feathers, and grass, seagull nests are distinctly visible. These birds can be noisy and assertive, particularly during nesting season, posing challenges for homeowners.
These playful birds are famous for their bright plumage and are native to Australia. They choose tree hollows or human-made structures for nesting. They craft their homes with wood chips, feathers, and soft materials.
The management of wildlife and its natural environment in Australia is overseen by a range of legislation and regulations that are aimed at maintaining diversity of life. A discovery of the birds nesting in your roof may oblige you to know the legal implications to prevent breaking the law and respecting the environment. Here’s an overview.
Australian native birds receive strict protection under the EPBC Act to conserve biodiversity, ensuring the safety of threatened species like Rainbow Lorikeets or Welcome Swallows that nest in your roof. Caution is necessary, as harming these birds can result in severe penalties due to legal safeguards. Remember, it is unlawful to remove or disturb their nests without proper authorisation.
Invasive bird species like the Indian Mynas, Common Starlings, and House Sparrows do not receive protection under Australian law. These aggressive birds can lead to ecological and property harm. You can manage them by removing nests or implementing humane control methods.
Important: If you suspect a legally protected bird species has made a home in your roof, then you need to seek guidance from wildlife experts or your local environmental authority right away.
Let’s explore these risks and offer tips on how to manage or prevent them.
Birds nesting in roofs can surely, lead to damage to structures one way or another. Nest materials can block gutters and cause water backups. Some birds may peck at the roofing, leading to wear and tear. Nests near wires or chimneys can start fires. Birds in roofs can disturb insulation, raising energy costs.
Bird droppings are harmful. They carry bacteria and fungi. These can cause breathing issues like histoplasmosis, a lung infection. Birds also bring parasites like mites and fleas. These bugs can infest your home, leading to skin problems. Moreover, droppings in gutters mix with rain and can contaminate rainwater systems, making them unsafe.
Birds nesting in your roof can create significant noise disturbances, especially when they are in their breeding season. Species like Indian Mynas and starlings are particularly loud and social, exacerbating the noise issues. The constant chirping, scratching, and flapping wings can disrupt sleep and daily activities. This is on a regular basis, so can you imagine when the breeding season comes?
To prevent or address the risks associated with birds nesting in your roof, follow these practical tips:
Below are several effective bird deterrent ideas to help you stop birds from nesting in your roof.
By using these methods, you don’t stop the birds from nesting, just not in your roof.
Regular roof inspections is how to get rid of birds as then you can spot bird nests early, helping you prevent problems. Check your roof for nesting materials and bird activity. Get professional inspections yearly to find hidden nests and get bird-proofing advice.
Birds often sneak into roof spaces through small openings or gaps. To prevent birds from nesting in your roof, confidently seal off these entry points. Here’s how:
You can try some bird deterrent methods to keep birds off your roof; most of the time they are successful in teaching the birds not to come back. Install spikes on edges and ledges to prevent landing. Hang reflective objects or use ultrasonic repellents to deter birds.
To safely and legally remove nesting birds from your roof, consult a professional bird removal service. Professional services use humane methods to remove birds and their nests. This can be especially important for protected bird species.
Another prevention step is to clean the gutters of your home more regularly. They provide a secluded and protected space to the birds, they can build nests there faster than you can imagine.
Book professional gutter cleaning, your home will thank you.
Do you have birds in your roof? Have you managed to identify whether they are protected or not? Let us know by commenting below!
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