Scientific Study of Bird Control Techniques

An Evaluation of Techniques to Control Problem Bird Species on Landfill Sites

Authors: Aonghais Cook, Steven Rushton, John Allan, Andrew Baxter
Published online: 7 February 2008 http://www.researchgate.net/publication/5594984_An_Evaluation_of_Techniques_to_Control_Problem_
Bird_Species_on_Landfill_Sites

 "The use of distress calls, falconry, and combinations of lethal and nonlethal use of ammunition were the
most effective techniques for initially deterring birds from these sites. However, when habituation is considered, there is a clear difference between techniques such as falconry, which have a lethal aspect and may act to reinforce the deterrence, and the use of techniques such as distress calls, which do not."

"Using a combination of the techniques that were found to be successful in this study will maximize the effectiveness of pest management schemes."

The above research study looked at multiple bird control techniques used across multiple sites, and compared control periods with time periods during which bird control techniques were introduced. The study continued to monitor the effectiveness of the techniques over time, in order to identify which techniques the various species of seagull would habituate to.

Two key conclusions from the study are principles by which HT Bird and Pest Control practice bird control in Cornwall:
1) the use of a variety of methods
2) the use of falconry as a highly effective method that is increasingly effective over time.

We pride ourselves in providing an ethical bird control service in Cornwall, as so draw on the most suitable method for each job. We will not sell you a full falconry programme if bird proofing your building will be effective and cheaper. We will provide you with expert advice based on your budget and requirements.

With eight years of experience specializing in bird control, we are fully competent in all of the methods of bird control and will always offer a bespoke programme to each customer. Falconry is an often used technique for bird control on landfill sites, at hotels, schools, hospitals, businesses and any large establishment. This is due to the effectiveness of the technique. In extremely heavily populated areas of seagulls, such as landfill sites, it may be necessary to fly a falcon that is actively hunting the seagulls. In an average bird control situation in Cornwall, at hotels, schools, business premises and hospitals, it is not necessary to fly a hunting falcon. In these situations we will use a falcon or hawk that is trained to fly to the lure for food. The seagulls will still view the bird of prey as a predator and leave the area.

People can be concerned that birds of prey are natural hunters and so may make a kill in front of their customers - this can occur, but is very rare. Remember that seagulls are large birds that are not the natural quarry of the smaller falcons. The smaller falcons are still effective in bird control, as the seagulls recognize the shape of a falcon and do not investigate further! The Harris Hawks that we fly for most bird control work in Cornwall in urban environments will naturally hunt ground quarry, such as rabbits. They are still very effective in scaring seagulls due to their large size. Our birds are carefully trained and selected to be the most suitable birds for bird control work. We take pride in the team that we have built up over eight years, and ensure that they have the best life possible. We can provide a free flying demonstration when providing a quote for your business - please contact us for further information.

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