How To Find And Remove A Dead Bird

What can you do about the awful dead bird smell in your home? If you have ever experienced a bird infestation problem of pest birds such as pigeons, chances are, you have had to deal with the smell of dead birds, which is quite unpleasant. This smell can be compared to that caused by an accumulation of waste as well as bird dropping around the region where the birds are roosting. Unfortunately, these birds always seem to find their way into vents, heating shafts, or even chimneys where they stay unnoticed until your nose catches the dreadful smell. 

It is also quite common for birds to make their way into your ceiling space through cracks or missing and damaged tiles. It is unfortunate that most homeowners at any given time have to deal with dead pigeons especially during a renovation project. If the smell of a dead and decomposing body becomes evident in your home, it is critical that you identify where the smell is coming from. Keep in mind that a dead bird may pose numerous threats to your health and given the fact that pigeons live in large groups, it is highly likely that you will be dealing with multiple dead birds. 

Once you have identified and get rid of the decomposing creatures, you must thoroughly clean the affected areas to get rid of the bird smell, which is likely to linger for a while. When removing these birds and their droppings, it is highly advisable that you have layer protective clothing coupled with a facemask and gloves. It is important that you have the necessary protective clothing when getting rid of the dead bird and their droppings. 

Dealing with dead birds in the Rafters

Birds, especially pigeons cause property owners torrent problems. Pedestrians and the relevant sanitation authorities have a hard time dealing with the pigeon menace. Pigeons are normally found in large groups and it is quite common to find their huge flocks roosting in urban areas. These species thrive perfectly in almost any human setting where they get a constant supply of food. 

These birds are skilled at making their way into our homes. If the spot in your home is suitable, they are likely to roost and construct their nests there. Once the first pigeon nests in your home, it is only a matter of time before more join. These birds are known to communicate with the help of the pheromones in the fecal matter. Rafters make a great spot for pigeons and other birds to roost due to the flat nature coupled with the fact that human activity is less in these areas. Unfortunately, some of these birds get trapped and die in the rafters. In fact, the smell from the dead body will become evident before the bird itself. 

Dealing with these remains stuck in your rafters may be a challenge for most homeowners. Fortunately, there are numerous companies ready to help you with professional removal and cleaning services especially when dealing with a bird infestation. Should you decide to deal with the problem yourself, it is important that you have the right equipment coupled with health and safety precautions to efficiently deal with the problem.

Safety concerns

Once you find the body of a dead bird, appropriate steps must be taken to dispose of it fast and safely to eliminate any chances of contracting diseases or attracting other pests. Should the body be alone, it will decompose with the helping hand of other pests and insects such as cockroaches, blowflies, and ants. It is critical that you dispose of the body to avoid inviting other pests into your home. In addition, if the birds died from a bacterial or virus infection, it may transmit the fatal illness such as the West Nile virus to anyone close to it. Lastly, since the decomposing body ultimately breaks down, it releases horrible smelly gasses coupled with fluids that may stain your ceiling and walls. 

Hire Professional Removal Services

Homeowners are highly discouraged against directly touching the dead bird. Should you find a dead bird on your property, the services of professional pest removal companies are highly recommended. These specialists have what it takes and the know-how to dispose of these dead birds safely and sanitize the area to prevent the likelihood of spread of diseases. 

Handling Dead Birds 

If you come across the dead birds, you are highly advised to leave it alone or follow the steps listed below to get rid of it. If you find a dead bird in your proper:

1. Never touch it especially with bare hands
2. Wear gloves( rubber or latex) to throw it away
3. Put the bird in a plastic bag and seal it while exercising caution to not touch the outer part of the bag with the bird.
4. Remove the gloves to throw and use the plastic bag as the glove. 
5. Place the bag in a second plastic bag
6. If you cannot place the decomposing body in a plastic bag, you can choose to bury it but not in a plastic bag. 
7. If your clothing has come into contact with the bird, wash it using the ordinary laundry soap and at the normal washing temperature.
8. Clean the surface where the dead bird was with the normal household cleaner. 
9. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water

Also read our other bird tip: What is pigeon needle strip?