Most of us like to see birds in their natural habitat, but it can be a very different matter when there are too many of them in the wrong place. Birds like pigeons, starlings, and seagulls can become a nuisance if they’re allowed to congregate on business premises. However, there are legislative implications with any actions taken that affect bird species in the UK, governed by the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981).
All our methods for controlling nuisance birds at Rentokil Pest Control comply with the legislation set out in the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) and are approved by the relevant Legislative Bodies:
- Natural England
- Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH)
- Natural Resource Wales
- Northern Ireland Department of the Environment
All wild bird species (including their nests and eggs) are protected by law in the UK. Any offences regarding this legislation may lead to an unlimited fine and prosecution of the parties involved. You should be able to avoid harming birds by timing any work to avoid the breeding season, usually between March and August and by using professional pest control methods that deter the birds, but do not harm them.
Avoiding bird issues by taking preventative measures such as bird netting, scaring, hawking or specialist bird proofing will reduce the need for more complex bird control solutions and any associated licences required under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.
Certain nuisance bird species can be dealt with for the following reasons:
- To conserve wild birds
- To preserve public health and /or safety
- To preserve air safety
- To prevent serious damage or disease
Only birds listed in the relevant General Licence can be removed by an authorised, qualified person. If the relevant pest bird species is not covered on this licence, Rentokil Pest Control will advise you of this and look to apply for a special licence on your behalf.
If nuisance birds are causing problems for your business, there are solutions to deal with them legally, but you will need the knowledge, experience and advice of professionally qualified avian specialists for a long-term resolution to your bird issues.