Michigan Gull & Shorebird Services

It is critical to know that gulls are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to trap, poison, or harm them, and you cannot disturb an active nest. Because of these strict regulations, effective control relies entirely on professional exclusion. We safely and legally deter gulls by installing structural modifications—such as commercial bird netting, tension wire grids, and bird spikes. These humane deterrents make it physically impossible for the birds to land or build nests, forcing the flock to move elsewhere.

Michigan's diverse environment and shifting seasons present unique challenges when it comes to bird control. Pigeons actively seek out the warmth and shelter of commercial buildings and industrial facilities during harsh Michigan winters. In cities like Detroit, Lansing, and Grand Rapids, abundant food sources and complex architecture provide ideal habitats. If left unmanaged, the highly acidic nature of pigeon droppings can rapidly degrade building materials, ruin paint, and damage specialized machinery.

Though they are small and might seem harmless at first glance, the House Sparrow is actually an invasive species and one of the most persistent, destructive pest birds in Michigan. Because they are highly adaptable, they thrive in both urban and suburban neighborhoods, often making their homes directly inside yours. House Sparrows look for small, tight spaces to build their massive, messy nests. This behavior leads to a variety of serious issues for homeowners and businesses.

Recognizable by their dark, glossy feathers and speckled appearance, European Starlings are an invasive species that cause massive headaches for Michigan homeowners and commercial property managers alike. Because they travel in enormous, noisy flocks, a starling problem can escalate from a minor nuisance to a major property hazard in a matter of days. Starlings are cavity nesters, meaning they are constantly on the hunt for holes and crevices to build their homes. Unfortunately, human structures provide the perfect environment for them.

While swallows are incredible acrobats in the air and consume a vast amount of mosquitoes and insects, they can quickly overstay their welcome when they decide to build their homes on yours. In Michigan, Barn Swallows and Cliff Swallows frequently choose human-made structures, turning beautiful porches, eaves, and barns into messy nesting grounds. Swallows build distinctive, cup-shaped or gourd-shaped nests entirely out of mud pellets. When they attach these nests to the side of your home or business, they bring a specific set of challenges.

With their stark black feathers and unmistakable "caw," the American Crow is one of the most highly intelligent—and highly destructive—birds in Michigan. While a single crow passing through your yard isn't an issue, these birds are highly social and often form massive winter roosts that can number in the thousands, turning your property into a chaotic and unsanitary nightmare. Because crows are incredibly smart scavengers, they quickly learn how to exploit human environments for food and shelter. When a flock decides to settle on your property, they bring a multitude of problems.

While they are fascinating to watch in the forest, woodpeckers—including the Downy, Red-bellied, and Northern Flicker—can cause thousands of dollars in damage when they turn their attention to your Michigan home. Houses with cedar siding, wood fascia, or synthetic stucco (EIFS) are especially vulnerable to these persistent birds. Woodpeckers drill into the exterior of homes for three main reasons, all of which lead to severe property damage and endless frustration