Food and beverage processors work hard to maintain contamination-free environments, yet birds are a risk that’s often underestimated.

Pest birds like pigeons and sparrows can create challenges which may lead to property damage. If bird activity or nesting has become more noticeable around your facility, reach out to your RK Environmental Services to explore commercial bird control and prevention options.

Possible Health Risks of Birds

While some birds are viewed as charming pets, it must be said that they can also carry pathogens, fungal spores, and ectoparasites. These can be found on their feathers, in their nests, or within their droppings. In fact, birds are linked to the spread of more than 60 diseases, including histoplasmosis, encephalitis, Salmonella, toxoplasmosis, and West Nile virus.

Possible Businesses Risks of Birds

A single bird or evidence of bird activity in a food processing facility can disrupt operations, leading to potential shutdowns or plant closures if seen during health and regulatory inspections. When flagged in third-party audits, bird presence may put business relationships at risk. Companies can also face substantial fines for bird-related violations.

Handling a bird issue isn’t as straightforward as addressing it internally. Many species are protected by federal, state, and local laws. Relocating birds, interfering with nests, or attempting removal without proper authorization can result in legal and financial repercussions. Consulting a professional before taking action helps ensure compliance with these regulations.

Frequent Birds in Food Processing Facilities

Many species of birds can create issues for food processing facilities, though some are more commonly found than others.

Smaller birds, in particular, can slip into buildings with ease, including:

English house sparrows
Common European starlings
Swallows

Larger birds typically stay outside, but this presence still causes harm to rooftops and exteriors, including:

Pigeons
Seagulls

Why are Birds Interested in My Property?

The environment around a food processing facility could cause bird activity. Locations near water, landfills, or feed mills often see increased bird presence and may need extra strategies to manage the issue.

Within the facility itself, certain areas and conditions can make it more inviting to birds. Common factors include:

Open dumpsters and spilled products outside create an accessible food source for birds.
Overhangs that provide sheltered spaces that make ideal nesting spots.
Structural gaps, such as those in corrugated siding, soffits, and weep holes, offer additional areas for nesting.
Damaged dock door bumpers can collect food debris and become nesting sites.
Windows and doors left open for ventilation or traffic allow birds to fly directly inside.
Even small gaps around doors give birds an easy entry point, letting them walk right in.

Air, Product, and Equipment Contamination

Birds can contribute to contamination in food processing facilities through direct entry and rooftop activity.

Open doors create an easy access point, and some bird species quickly adapt, learning when these openings will be available. Once inside, they may fly around or perch on rafters and high surfaces, where droppings can fall onto production lines or stored products, raising contamination risks.

Rooftops also attract birds, providing a place for them to spot food and shelter. When HVAC systems, mechanical equipment, or air circulation units are present, especially on flat roofs, birds often gather around them for warmth. As these systems run, they can draw in feathers and droppings, potentially circulating contaminants throughout the facility.

5 Tips for Deterring Nuisance Birds

Managing the risks that come with bird contamination should be a priority for any food processing facility. Working with a bird control specialist can help evaluate different strategies and identify the most effective approach, as solutions vary depending on the facility.

When addressing a bird problem, consider taking these steps:

1. Close All Doors and Windows.

A frequent challenge for businesses is birds entering through propped-open doors, often left open for ventilation or convenience. Adding screen doors can help preserve airflow while blocking bird access, while strip doors create a barrier that lets people and equipment move through while keeping pests out. Encouraging staff to close doors and windows when not in use can further minimize the risk of birds getting inside.

2. Seek Expert Bird Exclusion Services.

Placing netting under overhangs can prevent birds from nesting or roosting in these sheltered spots. This method not only discourages nesting but also helps keep birds from congregating near doors and windows, lowering the likelihood of them entering the facility.

3. Use Perch Modification Solutions in Outdoor Areas Where Birds Frequently Gather.

Devices such as spikes and electric tracks discourage birds from settling without causing harm, making these locations less appealing and helping to minimize their presence around the facility.

4. Seal Any Gaps at Dock Doors When Trucks are Present and Check for Small Openings in the Building’s Structure.

Even tiny gaps can give birds access, making it important to thoroughly inspect the exterior for potential entry points. Observing deliveries and product pickups can also help identify areas where birds may be gathering or finding ways inside.

5. Educate Staff on the Importance of Maintaining a Clean Environment.

Birds are often viewed as harmless, and employees may not recognize the problems that can arise when they feed on spilled products. Providing training on the impact of bird activity, enforcing quick cleanup of spills, and keeping products stored indoors can help reduce attraction. Assigning a team member to regularly inspect garbage and dumpster areas can also prevent the buildup of food sources and nesting materials.

Other bird management strategies, such as hazing techniques or vegetation treatments, may also be worth considering. The most effective approach will depend on the facility’s operations, the bird species present, and your location.

Contact the Experts for Professional Solutions

Bird activity at your facility may not seem like an immediate issue, but even a single bird can suddenly cause disruptions.

If you’ve noticed birds around your facility or have experienced issues with them getting inside, contact the experts at RK Environmental Services. Schedule a consultation as soon as you suspect a bird infestation, we’re always here to give you the help you need.