BirdMaster's Blog

Building might eventually be torn down due to bird droppings

birdmaster — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:33:30 +0000

An infested downtown storefront in Linton, Indiana might not stay there much longer. The building has suffered severe damages due to accumulation of bird guano over the years.

The structure has been compromised and its roof might collapse soon if no one takes charge of the situation to fix the bird infestation in a timely manner. Cleaning up the mess is just the first step to a more advanced and permanent solution, such as the installation of humane bird control systems to prevent future birds from roosting and nesting on its structures.

Without any further action, the building may be in serious trouble. Chances are that city officials will have to tear it down.

The storefront’s poor condition is making neighboring businesses worried. On one end, the adjoining properties could suffer damages by the tear-down efforts. On the other end, keeping the visually unappealing building, with its discolored walls and façade covered in pigeon poop, can create a negative impression on current and new customers.

Despite the fact that the property has been declared a nuisance, other suggestions have also arisen. One suggestion was to donate the property to local groups or the city, but the mayor didn’t show any interest due to its elevated cost. Cleaning the building and removing the birds is just a temporary solution and will not solve the problem. Mayor Leigh did some work to clean up the interior and remove the pigeons, but problems remain.

On top of all this, there are the potential health hazards associated with pigeon droppings. To list a few, Histoplasmosis and Cryptococcosis, both caused by fungus found in the bird guano, can cause infections and other major health complications.

Source: http://gcdailyworld.com/story/1801554.html

BirdMaster Bird Control Systems specializes in humane and environmentally friendly bird deterrent systems. They have been protecting historic and commercial buildings for over 20 years. BirdMaster protects buildings from the damaging effects as well as the health hazards associated with bird guano. Their systems do not harm bird or the environment.

Gulls cover Saginaw City Hall with droppings

birdmaster — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:24:32 +0000

(Photo by John-Morgan – Flickr)

Winter has arrived, and so did the birds for Saginaw city, Michigan.

Facing a rapidly wave of flying gulls, Saginaw City Hall has probably never seen such a thing – Pest birds invaded the city in an unexpectedly short amount of time and are causing severe damages to roofs and structures around town.

The buildings and surrounding areas along city’s Saginaw River are covered with white bird droppings and are looking pretty bad for visitors and residents. Sidewalks and vehicles didn’t escape from this storm, and neither did the population, who are constantly avoiding being hit by bird guano falling from the sky.

The situation seems out of control to Phil Karwat, Saginaw’s director of public services, who works across from City Hall at 1435 S. Washington. He also claims that he has never seen anything like this in the 12 years that he has been working in the Saginaw City Hall.
Source: http://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw/index.ssf/2011/12/bombs_away_throngs_of_fish-fea.html

The arrival of Seagulls brings health concerns to Tinton Falls, NJ

birdmaster — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:34:57 +0000

(Photo by ngader – Flickr)

It is a fact that Gulls can be a nuisance and spread diseases even in small numbers, but when agglomerated in large flocks they can seriously disturb a population.

Monmouth County officials are seriously concerned about this massive invasion of seagulls and are searching for solutions to the problem. Residents are stunned by the amount of birds that have infested the area and are demanding action from authorities to get rid of these pest birds.

“Baldwin said he is concerned about the potential health hazards that may arise from the large bird population that has taken root in Fox Chase.

Monmouth County Freeholder Director Robert Clifton said the county is actively investigating the problem.

‘This is a top priority for the administration. We’re going to get a solution. We’re going to get it as fast as humanly possible,’ Clifton said.”
Read more: http://middletown-nj.patch.com/articles/freeholders-tinton-falls-bird-invasion-a-priority

BirdMaster Bird Control Systems specializes in humane and environmentally friendly bird deterrent systems. They have been protecting historic and commercial buildings for over 20 years. BirdMaster protects buildings from the damaging effects as well as the health hazards associated with bird guano. Their systems do not harm bird or the environment.

Pigeons take over Washington County

birdmaster — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 14:01:21 +0000

(Photo by sermoa – Flickr)

A large, growing group of pigeons have infested Washington County and are causing officials to worry about the health and well-being of its population. Before the population and visitors get sick from bird droppings, the town is brainstorming ways to fix the pigeon infestation without harming birds or the environment.

Since the old Washington County Tennessee courthouse in Jonesborough was taken over by pest birds, the accumulation of bird droppings on its exterior has caused a significant mess to its façade.

“ ‘I’d say there’s 150, 200 pigeons up there, it gets more every day,’ said Jake Hensley.

Hensley’s spent the last two decades fighting a losing battle.

‘They’ve been a problem for years, but it’s worse this year than it’s ever been,’ said Hensley.

The Washington County courthouse maintenance director cleans bird droppings every morning.

‘We have to keep the porches and ramps washed off so people don’t have to walk through,’ said Hensley. ‘They need to get rid of them.’

The county is coming up with a plan to eliminate the problem. Some will likely be trapped and killed. The county will also remove the windows so the birds can’t roost there. But first, leaders will install sharp bird control strips on all flat surfaces.

‘The manure’s really in there,’ said Hensely. ‘I mean really in there.’

They know they won’t be able to get rid of all of the animals, but they say it’s time to do something.

‘If this keeps on, somebody’s going to get sick,’ said Hensley.

As know, the buildup of bird dropping can cause structures to deteriorate over time. As well, the cost to clean the mess left behind by pigeons can surpass the cost involved in the installation of humane bird control systems.

Birds create a problem for students and faculty at Millersville University, PA

birdmaster — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 16:39:36 +0000

Nearly fifty Canada geese are infesting the Millersville University campus. These birds are causing a mess around the campus and are interfering with the well-being of the students, faculty and visitors on site.

“The birds have created a ‘poo problem’ at Millersville University. ‘As of right now — it’s a poop invasion,’ said freshman Vanessa Rave. You don’t have to look hard to find goose droppings around the college’s typically pristine pond.

A flocking fraternity of four dozen Canada Geese became the messiest party animals around campus. Dr. Ralph Anttonen, or ‘Doc Roc,’ said his walk to class usually involves dancing around droppings.

‘Every time I come this way and I have to go over this bridge over here — you have to sort of avoid stepping in it, if you know what I mean,’ Anttonen said.

One goose can poop up to 25 times a day, creating two pounds of it. Take in consideration there’s nearly 50 birds on campus. Cleaning up about 100 pounds of poop daily has given head groundskeeper, Larry Aurand, headaches for months.

‘We clean the sidewalks every day and at its height this summer, by the middle of the day they almost needed it again,’ said Aurand.

The bird droppings pose serious health threats too. Diseases can be tracked into dorms and classrooms — not to mention that scat can be slippery.

‘Every sidewalk that you possibly walk on by the ponds, [the poop is] everywhere,’ Rave said. ‘It’s green and it dries white, but on the bottom of your shoes. It’ll stay there for days.’
Read more: http://www.abc27.com/story/15991111/goose-droppings-raise-stink-at-millersville-university

It is important for schools to offer a clean and safe site for students, faculty and visitors. To avoid contamination, birds must be kept away, and the site must be free of bird droppings.

A humane bird control system can be very effective in eliminating pest birds, without harming the birds or the environment.

Herderson City Declares Pigeons a Public Nuisance

birdmaster — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 20:28:22 +0000

(Photo by donjd2/Flickr)

The city of Henderson in Nevada is facing a serious pigeon infestation. An ongoing increase in the pigeons’ population has been an issue for the city. These pest birds have been taking over the city’s buildings and public areas over the years.

Believed to be the cause of 60 different diseases, pigeons are now the target of a new law in Henderson. The city is concerned with a large number of pest birds roosting and nesting all over the city, and is concerned that the pigeon population is still growing.

They believe to be dealing with 750,000 to a million pigeons in Clark County, and are estimating that number to double every four years.

“With pigeons come pigeon droppings. Those droppings can contain diseases and do damage to homes. The city of Henderson has now added an ordinance which declares pigeons a public nuisance.

‘Basically you can’t do anything that creates an attractive [environment] for the pigeons,’ Dr. Gary Weddle with Henderson Animal Control explains. ‘This ordinance is directed towards the person that’s attracting the pigeons.’

For instance, if a neighbor leaves pet food out that is attracting pigeons, you may report that person.

“It’ll be complaint driven; if there’s an issue we’ll come over and talk with them,” Weddle continued.

The first visit will be a warning, but repeat offenders could be charged with a misdemeanor. That comes with anything up to a $1,000 fine or six months in jail.”

Pigeons are a serious nuisance and they are extremely hard to control without implementing effective bird control systems.

Pigeons invade Virginia Metro Garage

birdmaster — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 17:18:46 +0000

(Photo by Zigzou76/ Flickr)

Virginia Metro has recently received a citation issued by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry for an alarming pigeon infestation at its Four Miles Run bus garage. Health hazards are the main concern of residents and state officials.

“Virginia officials have cited Metro for having a ‘serious’ health violation: too much pigeon poop.

The state’s Department of Labor and Industry issued citations to the transit agency for a problem with pigeons — and their droppings — at Metro’s Four Mile Run bus garage in Arlington in April. The problem was supposed to be fixed by May 21, but the case remains open, records show.

‘Pigeons were roosting in the ceiling on ledges, air ducts and any horizontal space available to them,’ one of the citations reads.

The agency had a contractor clean the area three times in May, then power wash the entire area in June. But crews had to remove new debris and sanitize the bay less than two weeks later.”

Read more at the Washington Examiner: http://washingtonexaminer.com/local/dc/2011/08/pigeons-making-roost-nuisance-metro#ixzz1U5pahnaD

The monthly maintenance and cleaning costs to get rid of all the mess left by the pigeons could be easily offset by installing effective and humane bird control systems.

By preventing birds from roosting and nesting in the ceiling, businesses can save countless dollars and be worry free.

Pigeon Infestation threatens to damage neighboring businesses causing concerns for the Linton City Council

birdmaster — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:16:21 +0000

Pigeons are causing serious concerns to neighboring merchants and city officials, as one of the empty storefronts lining the N. Main St of Linton City, Indiana has been the favorite place for pigeons to roost.

The accumulation of bird guano is causing merchants to worry about their businesses, as the pigeon guano pose health risks to neighbors and visitors.

The Linton City Council even considered demolishing the building, as the structures were also affected by the cumulative and corrosive effects of bird guano, and the owner believes the costs are too high to get it fixed at this point.

“Once the home of Attic of the Wind and Mainstreet Mortgage, the empty storefront’s now lined with pigeon feathers and bird dung.

Linton city attorney Tim Shonk told the Linton City Council he’s concerned Danny Leigh, the owner of the vacant storefront, might tear the building down, damaging neighboring businesses.

The same damage could occur, officials fear, if the city condemns and tears down the site, leaving an unsightly vacant lot.

Shonk’s also concerned about the possibility of health hazards, structural damage and collapse if the building stays standing.”
Read more: http://gcdailyworld.com/story/1736543.html

Pigeons can damage a building fast and repairs can be very costly. But often, businesses owners and property managers mistakenly forget to install bird control systems at their sites and do not pay much attention to bird infestations.

To prevent pigeons from entering or roosting on your building, BirdMaster installs highly effective humane bird proofing systems, which do not harm birds. Choosing the appropriate system can be challenging, but BirdMaster’s professionals understand the psychology of birds, which is why our installations have worked in places where feathered pests have remained unmoved by everything from spikes and chemicals to air cannons.

BirdMaster receives two prestigious awards from The New York Landmarks Conservancy

birdmaster — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 13:45:22 +0000

On April 27, 2011, BirdMaster, the leader in humane bird control for Historic Preservation, has received another two prestigious awards from The New York Landmarks Conservancy.

This year, the Conservancy’s 21st Lucy G. Moses Preservation Award recognized BirdMaster Bird Control Systems for the outstanding preservation efforts made at the Church of St. Francis Xavier and the New York Public Library.

“Inside the beautifully-restored sanctuary of honoree, Church of St. Francis Xavier, nearly 500 people gathered to take part in the Conservancy’s 21st Lucy G. Moses Preservation Awards on April 27. The coveted awards, nicknamed the ‘Preservation Oscars,’ laud outstanding preservation efforts by individuals and projects. They are named for Lucy Goldschmidt Moses, a dedicated New Yorker whose generosity benefited the City for more than 50 years.

‘The awards are a celebration of outstanding restoration projects throughout the City as well as some extraordinary individuals,’ said Peg Breen, president of the Conservancy. ‘The time and care that went into completing these projects demonstrates New Yorkers’ commitment to preserving the entire range of the City’s historic architecture.’

This year’s vast range of project award recipients—from the New York Public Library to a modest building in the Bronx; historic religious properties from many eras; architecture that is sometimes grand and opulent—tell the story of New York. The honorees included: 614 Courtlandt Street, Belasco Theatre, Church of St. Francis Xavier, Knox Building, Liberty Tower, New York Public Library, Our Lady of the Rosary Mission, Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, PS 90 Condominium, Queen of Greene, St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church, Surrogate’s Court-Hall of Records, and Urban Assembly New York Harbor School, Governors Island. Owners, managers, architects and restorers responsible for 12 outstanding preservation projects completed in 2010 accepted the awards”

BirdMaster receives the prestigious Excellence in Historical Preservation Award

birdmaster — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 17:31:28 +0000

The Preservation League of New York State has awarded BirdMaster Bird Control Systems, for an outstanding job performed in the New York Public Library, NY. This exterior preservation job entailed hard work, patience, and qualified professionals. The installation of humane bird control systems was a necessity as it prevents birds from depositing guano on the stone works which was causing deterioration of the stone.

BirdMaster is honored to have participated in this restoration project and is proud that its virtually invisible installations will protect structures from the damaging and disfiguring effects of bird guano, while retaining and preserving the building’s historical integrity.

“Patience and Fortitude, the iconic marble lions facing Fifth Avenue, have always welcomed researchers, visitors and tourists alike to the front plaza of the New York Public Library. Unfortunately, until recently, what awaited them was a soiled, pigeon-infested structure with missing and crumbling stonework shrouded in safety netting. Now, in time for the Centennial of the original opening, the facades have been restored to their original brilliance.” — Timothy Allanbrook AIA of Wiss Janney Elstner Associates