How Can You Safely Remove Birds and Pets in Citrus Heights?

Safely removing birds and pets from properties in Citrus Heights, California, requires a thoughtful approach that balances animal welfare, public safety, and compliance with local laws. Whether dealing with nuisance wildlife like pigeons or stray pets such as cats and dogs, residents must navigate a range of challenges, from property damage to health risks. This guide outlines humane and effective methods for  pets and birds removing , incorporating professional services, DIY techniques, and local resources available in Citrus Heights.

Understanding the Issue

Citrus Heights, a suburban city in Sacramento County, is home to diverse wildlife and a significant pet population. Birds such as pigeons, starlings, and house sparrows often roost in attics, chimneys, or under solar panels, causing damage through droppings and nesting materials. These droppings can carry diseases like histoplasmosis, particularly when they dry and become airborne. Similarly, stray or feral pets, such as cats and dogs, may pose issues like noise complaints, property damage, or health risks due to fleas and other parasites. The city’s urban environment, combined with its proximity to natural habitats, makes human-animal conflicts common.

Local regulations, enforced by Citrus Heights Animal Services and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, emphasize humane treatment and proper handling of animals. For instance, Citrus Heights Municipal Code 8-46 requires dogs to be leashed when not on private property, and codes 8-90 to 8-93 mandate licensing for pets over four months and regulate kennels or catteries with five or more animals. Wildlife removal, particularly for birds and protected species, often requires professional intervention to comply with state and federal laws.

Methods for Safe Removal

Professional Wildlife and Pest Control Services

For complex cases involving birds or wildlife, professional services are often the safest and most effective option. Companies like Professional Wildlife Removal Placer County and USA Pest Management specialize in humane removal of birds, bats, and other wildlife in Citrus Heights. These services conduct thorough inspections to identify entry points, nesting sites, and damage, followed by trapping, exclusion, and cleanup. For example, bird control may involve installing netting or spikes to prevent roosting, while pet removal typically focuses on stray dogs or cats, which are handled by Sacramento County Animal Services.

Professional services offer several advantages:

• Expertise: Trained technicians understand animal behavior and local regulations, ensuring safe and legal removal.

• Humane Methods: Professionals use non-lethal traps and exclusion techniques, avoiding poisons that could harm pets or wildlife.

• Comprehensive Solutions: Services include sealing entry points, cleaning contaminated areas, and repairing damage, such as chewed wires or soiled insulation.

However, costs can range from $200 to $600, depending on the animal and extent of the issue, with additional repairs potentially costing up to $15,000 for severe cases like crawl space restoration.

DIY Removal Techniques

For minor issues, residents can attempt DIY removal, provided they follow safety and legal guidelines. Here are some strategies:

• Bird Removal:

  • Habitat Modification: Remove food sources like birdseed or unsecured garbage to deter birds. Trim shrubs at least eight inches above the ground to eliminate nesting spots.

  • Physical Barriers: Install pigeon netting or bird spikes on ledges and rooftops. These can be purchased at hardware stores and are effective for preventing roosting.

  • Repellents: Use motion-sensing sprinklers or reflective tape to scare birds away. Ensure repellents are non-toxic to avoid harming pets or other wildlife.

• Pet Removal:

  • Stray Pets: If a stray dog or cat is found, check for tags and contact the owner. If unclaimed, call Citrus Heights Animal Services at 916-725-7387 or dial 311 for pickup. Avoid direct contact to prevent bites or scratches.

  • Feral Cats: Use humane traps to capture feral cats and take them to a local shelter like Bradshaw Animal Shelter for spaying/neutering or adoption.

When handling animals, wear protective gear like gloves and masks to avoid exposure to diseases. For dead animals, follow Citrus Heights’ guidelines: wear rubber gloves, wrap the animal in a plastic bag, and dispose of it in an outdoor garbage bin. Report dead birds potentially carrying West Nile Virus to the California Department of Public Health online.

Local Resources and Shelters

Citrus Heights Animal Services, located at 6315 Fountain Square Drive, provides affordable services for pet-related issues, including stray pickup, licensing, and microchipping. For wildlife, the city offers limited services, primarily for sick or injured animals. 

Local shelters like Placer SPCA and Coco Precious Fur Baby Rescue facilitate pet adoptions and provide low-cost spay/neuter programs. These organizations can also assist with feral cat management through trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, reducing the population humanely.

Safety and Legal Considerations

• Health Risks: Bird droppings and pet waste can carry pathogens like salmonella or histoplasmosis. Proper sanitation, including deodorizing and cleaning affected areas, is critical.

• Legal Compliance: California protects certain bird species, such as migratory birds, under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Unauthorized removal or harm can result in fines. Always verify the species before taking action.

• Pet Welfare: Stray pets must be reported to Animal Services to ensure they are reunited with owners or placed in shelters. Neglecting this can lead to legal penalties under local ordinances.

Table: Comparison of Removal Methods

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“Citrus Heights Animal Services is committed to providing affordable, compassionate animal services to the citizens of Citrus Heights.” 

Preventive Measures

To avoid future issues:

• Secure Properties: Seal entry points to attics, chimneys, and sheds. Use steel mesh, as rodents and birds can chew through weaker materials.

• Manage Waste: Secure garbage bins and compost piles to deter animals. Remove pet food and birdseed by dusk.

• Community Education: Engage with local shelters to promote spaying/neutering and responsible pet ownership, reducing stray populations.

Challenges and Considerations

Removing birds and pets can be challenging due to their adaptability and the emotional attachment to pets. Birds like pigeons are highly mobile and may return if exclusion methods are incomplete. Stray pets may be skittish or aggressive, requiring careful handling. Additionally, budget constraints may limit access to professional services, making DIY methods or free city services critical for some residents.

Conclusion

Safe removal of birds and pets in Citrus Heights involves a combination of professional expertise, DIY techniques, and local resources. By understanding animal behavior, complying with regulations, and using humane methods, residents can address nuisance issues effectively. Whether hiring professionals like Thomas Wildlife Control or utilizing Citrus Heights Animal Services, the goal is to ensure safety for both humans and animals while maintaining a harmonious urban environment.  

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