Safeguarding Businesses from Flying Intruders: The Importance of Bird Proofing

While birds may appear peaceful and harmless, their presence can pose significant challenges for businesses across all industries. Some of the most common nuisance birds found in Malaysia are pigeons, the common myna, house crows, and starlings. From property damage to health hazards, these birds can lead to serious problems that demand immediate attention.

What are the signs of bird infestations?

If you often find bird droppings decorating the walls of your premises, this could suggest that you have a bird infestation at hand. Recognising the signs of an infestation and taking proactive measures can drastically reduce the time needed to effectively control pest birds. Here is a list of warning signs indicating that it’s time to seek professional help:

● Birds settling on roofs or ledges
● Concentrated bird droppings in areas where birds roost
● Bird noises — continuous bird cries, especially from young chicks
● Bird nests — nesting materials scattered about your premises
● Debris from nests and feathers

Failure to address these warning signs can result in severe bird infestations, leading to increased defacement and maintenance costs, as well as continuous charges for cleaning services and the removal of nests.

Why is bird-proofing a necessity?

Bird droppings, like those of other pests, can spread a range of diseases that pose serious health risks. Salmonellosis, E. coli, and histoplasmosis are infections that can cause severe illnesses and complications if contracted by humans. In addition to health risks, bird infestations can also lead to safety hazards and cause damage to buildings:

● Bird droppings are known to be slippery. When accumulated on walkways or staircases, they can increase the risk of slips and falls, potentially resulting in injuries.
● Bird droppings, feathers, and nests can contaminate stock. This could lead to financial losses and potential product recalls.
● The presence of birds and their droppings can give a bad impression to customers and visitors. It may raise concerns about hygiene and cleanliness, affecting the reputation of your business.
● Bird droppings are corrosive and may degrade the structural integrity of materials such as steel and concrete. Over time, this can lead to costly repairs and maintenance to restore affected areas.

Once these nuisance birds turn your property into their home, it will be a challenge to remove and stop them from coming back. Birds tend to roost in voids and spaces of buildings leading to damage and defacement, making maintenance more difficult than ever. The heritage structures in Hyderabad, for instance, have been threatened by a severe pigeon problem. Old buildings have plenty of nooks for birds to nest, leading to some of the world's most magnificent buildings being covered in filth.

The impact of bird droppings on outdoor cultural heritage is a cause for serious concern. Tests have revealed that bird droppings can trigger significant chemical reactions on surfaces. For instance, uric acid in bird droppings can deteriorate superficial layers of copper and alter metal surfaces, leaving them susceptible to the damaging effects of bird droppings.

Rentokil bird control solutions

To safeguard against these risks, effective bird control and bird-proofing are essential. Rentokil’s range of bird control solutions offers tailored and humane strategies that not only mitigate health hazards but also safeguard the integrity of your property. At Rentokil, safety is at the forefront of everything they do, especially when it involves working at heights which is almost always the case in bird control. After conducting a thorough assessment and site survey, Rentokil will recommend the most suitable solutions based on several factors, such as the type of birds present, the level of infestation, and the building's structure and environment.

1. Bird Track Deterrent

The electrified UV track deterrent sends mild intermittent shocks to keep birds away without hurting them. This provides a reliable and long-lasting solution that can be used extensively on heritage sites and buildings with challenging specifications.

2. Bird Grille

Rentokil bird grille is an effective, elegant and aesthetic solution to safeguard your property against potential bird infestations. It is suitable for all high-rise buildings and is often placed at balconies, large window openings and open terraces.

3. Bird Netting

Bird netting can provide an immediate and effective solution at entry points and roosting areas to protect buildings from pest birds. Rentokil bird netting is made from durable, UV-protected materials to prevent the net from cracking under prolonged exposure to sunlight.

4. Bird Point Deterrent

Rentokil point deterrents or bird spikes are one of the most robust systems available. Designed for heavy infestations, the spikes can be fitted to any part of your premises to make it difficult for birds to land and force them to roost elsewhere. The spikes are made from stainless steel, making it a long-lasting and cost-effective solution.

5. Bird Gel Repellent

Uses a non-toxic, food-grade ingredient gel that can be applied to any surface and causes mild irritation to birds without harming them. After a few visits, birds will learn to avoid a particular location.

Rentokil offers a wide range of bird-proofing solutions that are not only highly effective but also sustainable, humane, and discreet. Each solution is tailored to your specific environment and building structure, all while ensuring that safety standards are met. If you suspect that you may have a bird infestation at hand, reach out to Rentokil’s bird control specialists today before these flying pests take over your property.

This content is provided by Rentokil Initial Malaysia