Best Bird & Pigeon Control in South Dakota Ranked

Bird and pigeon infestations can cause significant damage to your property and pose health risks. In South Dakota, managing nuisance birds requires an understanding of local regulations and effective control methods. This guide provides practical information on legal considerations, proven deterrent strategies, and what to expect when addressing bird problems, helping you connect with qualified local specialists for a safe and lasting solution.

Orkin

4920 W 14th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57106

Orkin provides residential and commercial pest control services in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. With over 120 years of experience, they handle a wide range of pests including bed bugs, termites, ants, rodents, mosquitoes, and wildlife. Their services include specialized termite inspections and treatments using methods like dry foam void filler, liquid barriers, and Sentricon® bait. Orkin also offers 24/7 availability for urgent pest control needs, ensuring timely response for homes and businesses in the area.

4.9

164 Reviews

Prairie Wildlife and Pest Control

sioux falls

Prairie Wildlife and Pest Control is a pest and wildlife management company based in Sioux Falls, SD. They offer integrated pest management services including rodent and bird control, wildlife removal, and commercial pest control. Their approach combines mechanical methods like structural repairs and pest barriers, cultural controls such as sanitation improvements, biological controls, and precise chemical applications. The company holds multiple certifications and licenses, including state certification and specialized certifications in bat and bird management, reflecting their expertise in pest and wildlife control.

5.0

8 Reviews

ACE Pest Control

720 Highpointe St, Tea, SD 57064

ACE Pest Control is a pest control company serving Sioux Falls, SD, offering services for both residential and commercial clients. Their expertise includes mosquito control, bed bug treatment, termite inspections, rodent and wildlife removal, and bird and bee/wasp control. Since 1989, ACE Pest Control has provided licensed and trained technicians to handle various pest issues with an environmentally conscious approach. The company also offers 24/7 emergency pest control services for immediate attention.

3.3

19 Reviews

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Understanding Bird Control Laws in South Dakota

Before taking any action, it's crucial to know which birds are protected by law. South Dakota regulations distinguish between non-native nuisance birds and native species.

• Pigeons (Rock Doves), Starlings, and House Sparrows: These species are not protected by state law ^{1 2}. They are considered invasive, and property owners are generally permitted to implement control measures to deter or remove them from buildings and structures.
• Native Birds (e.g., Robins, Sparrows, Swallows): All native birds, their eggs, and their occupied nests are protected under South Dakota law ¹. It is illegal to disturb or destroy an active nest. If a protected bird is nesting in a problematic location, you must wait until the nest is inactive (after the young have fledged) before removing it. For situations requiring intervention, a permit from the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks (GFP) department may be necessary ¹.

This legal framework means that for common urban pests like pigeons, you have more flexibility, but you must exercise caution to avoid harming protected wildlife.

Why Bird Control is Necessary

Allowing birds to roost or nest on your property isn't just a nuisance; it leads to tangible problems:

• Property Damage: Bird droppings are highly acidic and can corrode building materials like metal, wood, and stone ³. Accumulated debris can clog gutters and drains, leading to water damage.
• Health Hazards: Droppings can harbor fungi and bacteria, such as those that cause histoplasmosis. Mites and other parasites from bird nests can also infest buildings.
• Safety Risks: Slippery droppings on walkways, fire escapes, and loading docks create fall hazards. Nesting materials in vents, chimneys, or electrical equipment can pose fire risks.
• Aesthetic and Noise Issues: Unsightly stains and constant cooing or chirping can detract from your property's appeal and disturb occupants.

Effective Bird Deterrent and Exclusion Methods

The most effective bird control is proactive and focuses on exclusion-physically preventing birds from landing, roosting, or nesting. Here are the most common and reliable methods used by professionals in South Dakota.

Physical Barriers (Exclusion)

This is the gold standard for long-term control, creating a permanent physical block.

• Bird Netting: Heavy-duty polyethylene or polypropylene mesh is used to block access to large areas like eaves, rafters, canopies, and courtyards ^{4 5}. It's nearly invisible from a distance and provides a complete barrier.
• Bird Spikes: Strips with pointed rods made from stainless steel or durable plastic are installed on ledges, signs, beams, and parapet walls ^{6 7}. They prevent birds from landing without harming them. They are ideal for narrow surfaces.
• Bird Wire (Post and Wire Systems): A system of posts and stainless steel wires creates an unstable landing surface that birds find uncomfortable ^{6 8}. It's low-profile and effective for longer ledges.
• Structural Modifications: Sealing entry points is critical. This includes installing chimney caps, vent guards, and mesh screens over openings to prevent birds from entering attics, soffits, or warehouses ^{5 9}.

Sensory and Visual Deterrents

These methods aim to scare or irritate birds and are often used in combination with physical barriers.

• Visual Repellents: Reflective tape, holographic discs, or predator decoys (like owls) can provide temporary relief, but birds often become habituated to them over time ⁸.
• Sonic and Ultrasonic Devices: These emit sounds or frequencies unpleasant to birds. Their effectiveness can be limited to specific areas, and ultrasonic sounds do not affect all bird species ⁸.

For a lasting solution, an integrated approach combining physical exclusion with strategic deterrents is typically recommended by professionals ^{7 9}.

What to Expect: Professional Bird Control Services

Hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely, effectively, and in compliance with local laws. Here's what the process typically involves.

Assessment and Plan

A specialist will inspect your property to identify the bird species, entry points, roosting sites, and the extent of the problem. They will then recommend a customized combination of control methods suited to your building's architecture and your specific needs.

Installation and Implementation

Professionals have the tools and experience to install exclusion systems safely at height. This may involve:

• Cleaning and Sanitizing: Removing old droppings and nests (with proper protective gear) ¹⁰.
• Installing Barriers: Expertly fitting netting, spikes, or wire systems for maximum durability and effectiveness.
• Sealing Entry Points: Closing off gaps and installing vent covers or chimney caps.

Cost Considerations for Bird Control in South Dakota

Costs vary based on the size of the area, the methods used, and the complexity of the installation. Professional labor rates in the region often range from $50 to $100 or more per hour, with higher rates for work requiring ladders, scaffolding, or specialized roof access ^{4 6 11}.

• Materials: Bird spikes are generally lower cost per linear foot, while high-quality netting or extensive wire systems have a higher upfront material cost ⁵.
• Project Scope: A simple ledge spiking job will cost less than fully netting a large warehouse ceiling. Installing a chimney cap, a highly effective long-term solution, may start around $250 or more ⁵.
• Nest Removal: If removal of an inactive nest is required, costs can range from $100 to $2,000, heavily dependent on the nest's location and accessibility ¹⁰.

While DIY options exist, professional installation often provides better long-term value by ensuring the system is correctly installed for maximum longevity and effectiveness, preventing costly damage repairs later ^{11 3}.

Maintaining a Bird-Free Property

After installation, some maintenance is key:

1. Regular Inspections: Periodically check exclusion devices for damage, especially after severe weather.
2. Good Sanitation: Avoid leaving food scraps, open trash, or standing water that can attract birds.
3. Prompt Action: Address new bird activity immediately before a new roosting habit is established.

Frequently asked questions

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