How much does bird nest removal cost?
How much does bird nest removal cost?
$250 – $750 average cost for one nest (full-service removal)
Average bird nest removal cost
Bird nest removal costs $150 to $2,000 or more, depending on the number and species of bird, the nest location, and whether it's active or abandoned. Removing one nuisance bird or an old nest that's easy to reach costs $150 to $300 on average, or up to $750 for removal, cleanup, and preventative measures.
| Severity | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Minor – removal only (1 or 2 birds, one easily accessible nest) |
$150 – $300 |
| Minor – full service (removal, cleanup, prevention) |
$250 – $750 |
| Major – removal only (flock of birds, established nest(s), hard to reach) |
$500 – $900 |
| Major – full service (removal, cleanup, repairs, prevention) |
$1,000 – $2,000+ |
The cost to remove a bird nest from a chimney ranges from $200 to $800+, depending on the job complexity.
The cost to remove a bird nest from a vent is $150 to $500 on average.
Bird's nest removal cost factors
Several factors can influence the cost of removing a bird nest:
Assessment fee: Some bird control companies charge an initial $50 to $150+ inspection fee. They'll typically apply this fee toward the total removal cost if you purchase the service after the inspection.
Laws: The Migratory Bird Treaty Act prohibits removing, killing, or relocating certain migratory bird species without approval from the Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Service, which may increase your costs.
Abandoned vs. active nest: If live birds are inhabiting the nest, you may need to pay for a humane removal service to safely relocate them or wait until after nesting season, depending on the species.
Number of nests: The more birds and nests you need to remove, the more time and effort required to resolve the issue, increasing the cost.
Cleanup level: If the bird or flock of birds has been nesting on your property for a while, there may be significant cleanup involved in removing bird droppings, nesting materials, and sanitizing the area, adding to the labor cost.
Removal vs. full-service: Companies may give you two estimates—one for just physically removing the bird nest and a much higher all-in quote for the removal, repairs, cleaning and sanitizing, and preventative work.
Prevention: Additional measures like installing a vent cover, sealing off entry points, or adding deterrents such as spikes or netting increase your total cost but help prevent future, more costly bird problems.
Emergency service: Professionals often charge $100 to $200 extra for service outside of normal business hours, but if you have a bird trapped in your house, the additional fee may be less than the cost of the potential damage caused by waiting.
The list of federally protected birds contains over 20 different species, including cranes, doves, ducks, hawks, owls, and woodpeckers.
Nest location
The bird nest location significantly impacts removal complexity and price. In general, the harder the problem is to reach, the more you'll pay for removal. Costs may also skyrocket if the birds have caused structural or interior damage, such as an infestation in the attic requiring insulation removal and replacement.
| Nest location | Average cost to remove |
|---|---|
| Attic | $200 – $2,000+ |
| Chimney | $200 – $800+ |
| Exterior wall | $200 – $450+ |
| Garage | $100 – $300 |
| Inside the house | $100 – $300 |
| Light fixture | $100 – $300 |
| Roof or roof eaves | $200 – $1,000+ |
| Solar panels | $200 – $500 |
| Tree | $100 – $300 |
| Vent | $150 – $500 per vent |
Bird species
The species of bird can also affect the cost of removing a bird nest. Pigeons, woodpeckers, sparrows, and starlings are among the most troublesome bird nuisances in the United States.
Pigeons: Removing just one or two pigeons is often a simple job that costs less than $300. Removing an entire flock with an established nest will cost much more due to the complexity, potential damage, and extensive cleanup needed.
Sparrows: Their small size and tendency to nest in building crevices can increase removal difficulty and labor time. Expect to pay at least $300 to $500+ for removal.
Starlings: This invasive species is non-native to North America, breeds quickly, and often carries a variety of harmful diseases. Removal costs vary from $300 to $1,000+, depending on the severity of the infestation.
Woodpeckers: Protected by federal law, woodpeckers are often quite costly to deal with due to their persistent nesting habits, potential structural damage to wood surfaces, and permit requirements.
Removal methods
Animal and wildlife removal costs can vary widely based on the methods employed. A wildlife control professional can help you determine the appropriate removal methods for your specific situation. They may suggest one or more of the following options:
| Method | Cost tier | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Manual removal | $ | Straightforward approach best suited for accessible, small-scale nests with minimal complications. |
| Humane trapping | $$ | Involves specialized equipment and multiple site visits to safely relocate birds without harm |
| Chemical deterrents | $$$ | Includes application of specialized repellents and requires expert knowledge to ensure effectiveness and safety |
| Physical exclusion (preventing return) | $$$$ | Comprehensive method involving structural modifications to prevent future nesting, requiring detailed assessment and precise implementation |
Cleanup and repairs
Depending on the bird type, nest location, and how long the bird or birds have been living there, your home may have sustained damage that now requires repair. Be sure to get a detailed estimate for the bird nest removal so you know if they've included any repair work.
Ductwork replacement costs $270 to $500 per duct.
Dryer vent cleaning costs $80 to $250, depending on the vent's location.
Gutter repair costs $100 to $450, depending on the length and material.
Roof eaves repair costs $9 to $34 per square foot or $500 to $2,600 total on average.
Chimney crown repair costs $150 to $1,500+, depending on the material and damage extent.
Replacing attic insulation costs $1,000 to $2,700 on average for the materials and labor.
Attic cleaning costs $150 to $600+ to remove bird droppings, nesting materials, and disinfect the space.
Signs of bird infestation
Keep an eye out for the following signs to identify potential bird nest problems early and reduce the chance of costly repairs:
Unusual noises coming from walls or attics
Visible nests in or around your property
Bird droppings on walls, windows, or roof
Damaged insulation or structural elements
Increased bird activity around specific areas
FAQs about bird nest removal
Can I remove a bird's nest myself?
While it may be tempting to remove a bird's nest and clean up the area yourself, doing so can have serious legal and health implications. Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, it's illegal to remove or disturb a nest containing eggs or chicks without a permit, as most bird species are protected by law.
Additionally, bird feces and feathers can carry over 60 diseases, posing significant danger to your health. Bird nests can also harbor pests like mites and ticks, adding even more risk. If a nest is causing issues, consult a professional who understands the legal requirements and can safely manage the situation.
Can an HOA force you to remove a bird nest?
Most Homeowners Associations (HOAs) can require nest removal if the nest poses a health or safety risk, violates community guidelines, or involves non-protected bird species. However, the enforcement depends on the specific bylaws of your community and local regulations.
Is it illegal to remove a bird nest?
The legality of bird nest removal is complex and depends on the species. Many bird species are protected by federal laws, which restrict removal during nesting seasons. Always consult local wildlife authorities or a professional removal service to ensure you're complying with legal requirements.
Should I remove an old nest from a bird box?
Yes, removing old nests can prevent parasites and encourage new birds to use the box. Wait until you're certain the birds have completely departed and clean the box thoroughly to maintain a healthy environment for future nesting.
Who can I call for bird nest removal?
Wildlife removal services, local pest control companies, and specialized bird control experts are your best options for bird nest removal. Look for professionals with experience in humane removal techniques, proper licensing, and knowledge of local wildlife regulations.
Should you remove old bird nests from trees?
In most cases, you should remove old nests after breeding season. While nests can provide habitat for beneficial wildlife, they may also pose risks of disease transmission or attract unwanted pests. Evaluate your specific circumstances and consult a wildlife expert if you're unsure whether to remove a nest or leave it be.
Getting estimates from bird removal services
Follow these guidelines when searching for a reputable bird removal service near you:
Obtain at least three quotes from professionals with 5+ years of experience.
Check the reputation of the businesses you're considering on HomeGuide and Google.
Verify that they are licensed and insured for pest control service or wildlife management.
Avoid choosing a company with the lowest quote. If the price seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Get copies of the service agreement and any warranties.
Don't pay in full until the job is complete.
Questions to ask a bird's nest removal service
Ask the following questions when seeking estimates from bird removal services near you:
Are you licensed and insured for this type of work?
Do you give free on-site consultations?
Do you have experience with this type of infestation?
What methods will be used for removal?
Are there any local or federal laws that apply to this bird species?
How long will the process take?
What safety measures do you take during removal?
Can you provide references from previous clients?
Are there any additional fees for follow-up visits?
Is there a warranty on the work performed?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.