Top Bird & Pigeon Control in Ann Arbor, Michigan Ranked

Bird and pigeon control is a specialized service focused on humanely managing and excluding nuisance birds from residential and commercial properties. In Ann Arbor, where historic buildings and vibrant green spaces can attract various bird species, effective management is crucial to prevent property damage, health hazards, and noise issues. This guide will help you understand the local methods, costs, and strategies for bird exclusion, empowering you to find the right solution for your specific situation.

ProAction Pest Control

32540 Schoolcraft Rd Suite 250, Livonia, MI 48150

ProAction Pest Control is a locally owned pest control company based near Detroit, MI, serving Wayne, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Livingston counties. They provide residential and commercial pest and wildlife control services, handling a wide range of pests including ants, bed bugs, termites, rodents, bees, wasps, and wildlife such as raccoons and squirrels. Their capabilities include safe and licensed bee and wasp removal, as well as thorough termite inspections and treatments. With over 18 years of experience, ProAction Pest Control offers same-day service with no extra charge and emergency appointments, including evening and weekend availability.

4.8

217 Reviews

Ehrlich Pest Control

27165 Northline Rd, Taylor, MI 48180

Ehrlich Pest Control provides comprehensive pest management services in Detroit, MI, and the surrounding southeast Michigan areas. With decades of experience, they offer tailored solutions for homes and businesses to address common pests such as bed bugs, rodents, termites, mosquitoes, ants, and birds. Their local technicians understand the specific pest challenges of the region and deliver environmentally mindful treatments designed to prevent infestations and protect properties year-round. Ehrlich Pest Control also serves a variety of commercial sectors, including retail, food processing, and hospitality, with discreet and effective pest control strategies. The company has a long history of serving the Detroit metro area and emphasizes customized plans and customer satisfaction guarantees.

4.3

856 Reviews

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Why Bird Control Matters in Ann Arbor

While birds are a natural part of our environment, species like pigeons, starlings, and sparrows can become significant pests. They often roost and nest on building ledges, in rafters, and under eaves, leading to several problems. Accumulated droppings are not only unsightly but are acidic and can corrode building materials, damage roofing, and clog gutters ¹. More importantly, bird droppings can harbor pathogens that pose health risks. In a community-focused city like Ann Arbor, protecting the integrity of both historic homes and modern commercial structures from these issues is a priority for many property owners.

Common Problem Areas on Ann Arbor Properties

Birds seek out specific architectural features for shelter. Identifying these areas is the first step in a control plan.

• Ledges, Beams, & Railings: These flat, elevated surfaces are prime real estate for pigeons and other birds to land and roost. They are ideal locations for installing physical barriers like spikes, wires, or deterrent gels ^{2 3}.
• Roofs & Rafters: The protected spaces under roof peaks, within soffits, and around rooftop equipment provide ideal shelter for nesting. Professional exclusion here often involves netting or spikes to block access to these coveted spots ^{2 1}.
• Building Facades: Birds can exploit small gaps around vents, windows, and architectural details. Fine mesh netting is commonly used to seal these entry points without affecting a building's aesthetics or ventilation ^{2 3}.
• Gardens & Yards: Fruit-bearing trees, berry bushes, and ornamental plants can be a food source, while bird feeders, ponds, or fountains provide water. Managing these attractions in your landscape is a key part of a comprehensive bird management strategy ^{4 5}.

Humane Bird Control Methods Used Locally

Modern bird and pigeon control in Ann Arbor emphasizes humane exclusion and deterrence over lethal removal. Professionals typically recommend a multi-method approach tailored to the species, building, and level of infestation ^{2 3}.

Physical Exclusion (Barriers)

This is the most effective and permanent solution, physically preventing birds from landing or nesting.

• Bird Spikes: Made of plastic or stainless steel, spikes are installed on ledges, signs, and beams to make landing uncomfortable without harming the birds ^{2 3}.
• Bird Netting: A nearly invisible mesh barrier used to block access to large areas like courtyards, under eaves, or over loading docks. It's a common solution for commercial properties and complex architectural features ^{2 1 6}.
• Bird Wire: A low-profile system of posts and tensioned wires that creates an unstable landing surface on ledges and parapet walls ³.

Sensory Deterrents

These methods use sight, sound, or smell to scare or disorient birds.

• Visual Deterrents: Reflective tape, predator decoys (like owls or hawks), and laser devices can be effective for short-term dispersal in specific areas, though birds may eventually habituate to them ^{7 5}.
• Audio Deterrents: Devices that broadcast distress calls or predator sounds can be useful for large, open areas like farms or warehouses ⁸.
• Repellent Gels & Liquids: Non-toxic, sticky gels can be applied to ledges to create an unpleasant footing. Other repellents use taste or smell, such as methyl anthranilate (a grape flavoring birds dislike), to discourage roosting ^{3 9}.

Habitat Modification

This long-term strategy involves making your property less attractive to birds by removing the resources they seek.

• Food Source Removal: Secure trash bins, clean up spilled seed from bird feeders, and consider planting choices that minimize berries accessible to pests ^{7 5}.
• Water Source Removal: Fix leaky faucets, ensure proper drainage, and cover ornamental ponds or fountains if they are attracting flocks ⁴.

Advanced & Integrated Solutions

For persistent pigeon problems, professionals may integrate more advanced tactics.

• Bird Birth Control (OvoControl): This is a humane population management tool where treated feed is administered to reduce hatch rates over time, gradually lowering the flock size ^{9 10}.
• Professional Hazing: Techniques used to actively disperse birds from a site, often as part of an initial cleanup and exclusion project ⁸.

Understanding Costs for Bird Control in Ann Arbor

Pricing for bird exclusion services can vary widely based on the scope of the problem, the methods required, and the size of the property. Local providers typically structure projects into tiers ¹¹:

• Small Jobs: Starting around $200 or more, this might cover a single visit for assessment and the installation of deterrents like spikes on a residential window ledge or a small porch.
• Medium Jobs: Often $500 and up, these projects may involve multiple visits, a combination of methods (e.g., netting a small area and installing some spikes), and potentially minor cleanup or repairs.
• Large or Complex Jobs: For significant infestations, commercial-scale installations, or extensive cleanup of accumulated droppings, costs can rise to $1,000 or more. This tier includes large-scale netting systems, exclusion on multi-story buildings, and comprehensive habitat modification plans.

It's important to get a detailed, site-specific estimate from a professional, as the most cost-effective solution is one that addresses the root cause permanently, preventing recurring expenses.

Choosing the Right Strategy for Your Property

An effective bird management plan in Ann Arbor is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution. It typically involves combining physical barriers with habitat management and, in some cases, sensory deterrents ^{2 3}. For example, a restaurant with an outdoor patio might use netting to block overhead rafters while also ensuring dumpsters are securely sealed. A homeowner with a berry tree might install spikes on favored roof ledges while also netting the tree during fruiting season.

For do-it-yourself enthusiasts, simple deterrents like reflective tape or gel may offer temporary relief for minor issues. However, for established roosts, complex architecture, or to ensure methods are truly humane and effective, consulting with a local wildlife or pest control professional is highly recommended. They can provide a thorough inspection, identify all entry and roosting points, and implement a durable, integrated solution that complies with local wildlife regulations.

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