[Guide to Bird Control and Wildlife Management] Bird management: Preparing to do the work

Editor’s note: The following was excerpted from the PCT Bird Management Field Guide written by industry educator Richard Kramer, Ph.D. Featuring insights and tips to identify and control pest birds effectively and profitably, this book is a handy resource on all aspects of bird management, and its convenient size makes it easy to use on-the-job. It can be ordered from the PCT book store at www.pctonline.com/store.

Bird management operations begin with a thorough survey of the problem. This process serves to identify if there is a pest bird problem and the species involved, determine population size, evaluate the site and identify any unique behavioral characteristics of the population. It provides the basis for a pest management plan that considers all available tools and options, including habitat modification, exclusion, frightening, trapping, shooting and toxic baits.

SURVEY. The most important step in solving a pest bird problem is conducting a survey. Initially the survey determines the species of bird(s) causing the problem and if a situation exists that requires action. In many cases, bird problems are transient and resolve themselves with no intervention.

Most bird management plans fail or are complicated by public relations problems because an inadequate survey was conducted.

At a minimum, the survey should address the following areas:

• Location of the job site
• Species observed (target/non-target,  day/hour, number)
• Habitat (food, water, structures)
• Special equipment
• Time requirements
• Analysis of problem
• Public relations issues
• Recommended control procedures
• Pricing considerations

The survey and proper identification of the pest and non-pest bird requires several tools:

• Binoculars
• Wristwatch
• Field manual to aid in identification
• Reference manual to aid in identifying biology, habits and control strategies
• Site plan or map
• Survey form

A problem involving a single bird or a few birds usually does not require extensive planning. However, a few birds now might mean many more at a later time. Once a significant bird problem has been identified, the site should be visited on several days and at least three different times each day.

The site visit should be on a typical day rather than on a day when unusual activities (e.g., construction) are taking place or normal activities are not occurring (e.g., a mill shut down for fumigation). Adverse weather conditions such as rain or high winds should be considered.

The initial observations should be made at sunrise, midday and late afternoon. Each observation should note the date and time. Binoculars and a field manual should be used to identify both target and non-target birds in the area.

An estimate of the population(s) and notes on behavioral patterns should be made during each observation. This information should be recorded on the survey form and any notes or correction made to the site plan. Site plans provided by the account management might be old, and structural changes might have occurred that would alter the approach to the bird problem.

This information forms the basis for developing an Integrated Pest Management plan for control of bird population(s). A written plan detailing the procedures to be used facilitates the development of a cost estimate for the project.

PUBLIC RELATIONS. Before undertaking any bird control work, one must consider the effects it will have on public opinion. More than any other type of pest control, bird management can evoke a variety of emotions. Reactions can come from virtually any individual or group having an interest in protecting these defenseless animals, and are rarely based on the pest management technique being employed.

Most public relations problems develop when work is done in public view and when it involves more than a few birds. Small residential bird problems, as well as problems in commercial or agricultural settings, rarely generate any public interest or sympathy. Thus, usually it is only the first situation that requires attention.

If public relations problems are anticipated, you can work to educate your customers and the general public on the hazards associated with birds, e.g., property destruction, diseases, ectoparasites, aircraft hazards, food loss, etc. Even the most ardent bird lovers can occasionally be convinced that the threat to songbirds and other, more desirable species is a reason to manage pest bird populations.

Another point to emphasize is that you and your personnel are trained professionals, certified and licensed by the state to perform this type of work. The use of IPM strategies, which use a variety of pest management techniques that are designed, in most situations, to dislodge, exclude and relocate birds rather than kill them, should be emphasized.

Even when using toxicants, it is important to emphasize that the product is designed to frighten the birds, although a few birds might be killed in the process.Examples of previous work your company has done should be cited; have a list of references and letters of appreciation available.

BE PROACTIVE. When bird management will be visible, your public relations campaign should be initiated prior to starting the work. This could involve attending town and civic group meetings, eliciting the support of public officials and using public radio and television, newspapers, and any other means to reduce the impact of the project on public emotions.

Your presentation should always be factual and authoritative, which will build confidence in the public sector and possibly lead to new business.

This type of information is not necessary for every bird job. In industrial, commercial and private settings it is not usually necessary nor recommended that you inform the public.

However, do not neglect to inform and educate your customers, and if appropriate, their employees about the details of the work you do. Not only will this mitigate any concerns about the service, but it also will help gain cooperation in the event that conducive conditions need repair or if sanitation needs to be improved.