Troubles of Bird Nests in Vents
Birds are always beautiful, but they can definitely cause problems too. A bird’s nest built in a pretty tree might make for a good addition to a house, but a difference of location can make for a truly troublesome experience. Some birds, for example, end up constructing nests in different types of vents or other openings that are present in most homes. When that happens, problems can occur very quickly.
Holes That Attract Birds
All species of birds have their own favorite breeding sites and approaches. A few types of birds instinctively build their nests on the ground, while many more prefer to make theirs in trees. Quite a few kinds of birds search out sheltered, elevated spaces when the time comes to start a family. Many homes have features that can be almost irresistible to certain animals, like:
- Laundry vents. The hot air created by laundry dryers needs to be allowed to escape into the outdoors. Exposed, exterior vents that are attached to laundry rooms often prove particularly attractive to birds that prioritize warmth when choosing locations for their nests.
- Bathroom vents. Most bathrooms have vents which are built to allow humid air to flow out, even when driven by a fan. A bathroom vent will make for the perfect-seeming place for a bird to build its nest.
- Kitchen vents. The odors and heat created by cooking are most often directed outside via purpose-built vents. Once again, the warmth of a kitchen vent outlet will make it especially attractive to birds.
- Chimneys. Certain types of birds are infamous for building nests in chimneys, where the associated dangers are also especially high. Simply installing a chimney screen will prevent damage to your house.
A Nest May Become Problematic
Some birds create nests in residential vents or openings that homeowners may not even take a second look at. Many more, however, end up creating issues that need to be fixed right away. Some of the problems that most frequently occur after a nest is constructed by a bird in vent or chimney openings include:
- Insects. Many birds are infested with parasites including ticks, fleas, or mites. When birds construct nests in the exterior openings of houses, these little insects also find their way inside.
- Odors. Nests installed in vents and chimneys expose birds to hazards that many are not well prepared to face. Some birds end up dying near their vent-based nests and start to produce odors as they decompose.
- Fire. One of the most critical reasons to seek bird removal from vent or chimney outlets is to avoid the possibility of a fire. Nests themselves are often very flammable, and the heat flowing through such passages may set them ablaze.