Bird Nest Removal | Lint Bandit Dryer Vent Cleaning

~ Bird Nest Removal ~

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The Impact of Bird Nests on Vents

Bird nests can pose serious risks to both homes and businesses by obstructing vents. When nests accumulate in dryer vents, they can block airflow, leading to:

Increased Fire Risk: Clogged vents can cause overheating, creating a fire hazard.
Reduced Efficiency: Blockages hinder airflow, making appliances work harder and increasing energy costs, perhaps bringing your working dryer to a stand still.
Moisture Buildup: Restricted airflow can lead to condensation, fostering mold growth and damaging property. Water can literally pool up and cause heavily damage to ventilation often unseen in your flex hose or within your walls!

Birds can be a big nuisance for home owners, clogging venting, leaving droppings in and around the nesting area, leaving siding looking awful as well as being noisy inside the ventilation. At Lint Bandit, we have removed many birds nest over the years but there are several things to note when dealing with birds in your vents:

Migratory Bird Treaty Act: Most birds in Washington are protected under this federal law, which prohibits the removal of nests, eggs, or birds without a permit. This includes many common species like sparrows, robins, and others.

2. Washington State Law: Washington has additional protections for certain bird species, especially those listed as threatened or endangered. Removing nests of these species is strictly regulated.

Timing: It is generally illegal to disturb or remove nests during the breeding season (typically from early spring to late summer). It's important to check the specific timing for different species.

4. Install a vent cover or screen to block re-entry once nest is out of use and vent is cleared out. (highly recommended)

Long story short: If the nest's empty, or not active, we are within our legal right to move forward and remove the nest. As long as we can reach the vent then we can get it removed for you!

More thorough information concerning bird nest laws:

In Washington state, removing a bird's nest is generally illegal if it's active (contains eggs or young) due to the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and state laws (RCW 77.15.130), protecting most native birds, but empty nests can be removed, and special permits are required for active nests, often for safety hazards, requiring coordination with WDFW and USFWS. Always wait for birds to fledge (leave the nest), typically 4-6 weeks, or schedule removal for fall/winter outside nesting season to comply with the law.

Key Laws & Protections

Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA): Protects over 800 migratory bird species, making it illegal to take, possess, or destroy their nests, eggs, or young without a permit.
Washington State Law (RCW 77.15.130): Reinforces protections for bird nests, with enforcement by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

When Removal is Generally Allowed (Check for Inactivity)

Empty Nests: You can remove a nest if you are certain it is inactive (no eggs or chicks) and does not belong to a prohibited species (like starlings or pigeons).
Outside Nesting Season: The safest time for removal is fall and winter, after birds have left.

When Removal is Illegal (Requires Permit)

Active Nests: Do not touch nests with eggs or young, as disturbing them is a serious violation of the MBTA, notes Call Northwest and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Raptors: Active raptor nests need specific permits and coordination with WDFW and USFWS.

How to Handle an Inconvenient Nest

Confirm Inactivity: Watch for signs like frequent adult activity, but listen for young birds or see adults tending the nest.
Wait it Out: The best approach is often to wait 4-6 weeks for the young to fledge (leave the nest).
Contact Experts: For hazardous situations or if unsure, contact the WDFW or a licensed wildlife professional for guidance on obtaining permits or safe removal.

Key Takeaway: Avoid disturbing active nests; wait until they are empty, or consult WDFW for permits if removal is essential.

~ I believe in up front communication and clarity, I will always do my best to inform and educate home owners about their venting issues and give them the best and most practical solution possible. If i can't solve the issue, there's no additional fee, ever!