Logistics properties such as warehouses, distribution facilities, and fulfillment centers often face difficulties with storing, handling, and distributing goods due to nuisance birds. Logistics properties are often very large properties that have well-maintained landscaping, sizable retention ponds, and roof surface areas that are hundreds of thousands of square feet. These property characteristics make logistics properties attractive roosting and nesting sites.
Logistics properties are attractive nesting locations for nuisance birds: they provide shelter and often have numerous water and food sources. Nuisance birds – such as Canada geese, gulls, pigeons, sparrows, and starlings – are some of the species that affect logistics properties.
Common bird problem areas at logistics properties include but are not limited to:
- Rooftops
- Assets (e.g., HVAC, solar)
- Turf grass and landscaping
- Warehouse (interior)
- Loading docks
- Parking lots
The Damage Birds Cause
Property & Asset Damage
The large green spaces, retention ponds and elevated surfaces present at many logistics facilities attract birds. The accumulation of their droppings and nesting material can damage turf grass, roof membranes, HVAC units and solar panels, and clog roof drains. Cleaning, repairing and replacing damaged assets can be costly.
Revenue Loss
The continual presence of nuisance birds and the accumulation of their droppings and nesting material presents aesthetic challenges. Should smaller birds gain access to the interior of your property’s facilities, their presence and the accumulation of their droppings and nesting materials can negatively impact productivity, result in machine and equipment downtime, and even result in products being rejected.
Human Health & Safety Risks
Bird droppings and nesting materials can cause disease: both substances have been documented to harbor dangerous bacteria, including e. Coli.
When left to accumulate, droppings create unsanitary working conditions and can increase the risk of slip hazards. In extreme circumstances, employees and contractors have even refused to work in such conditions until long-term solutions were realized. Furthermore, during their respective nesting seasons, nuisance birds can become aggressive, endangering employees, contractors and visitors.
Logistics Bird Management Solutions
Logistics properties can manage their nuisance bird issues by leveraging bird management solutions, including a trained canine harassment program, nest and egg management, biological substances, automated lasers, and structural deterrents. The most appropriate solution will be property-specific and should be based upon the specific bird species involved and the behaviors the birds exhibit.
