Burnaby is famous for its beautiful shoreline, lush parks, and leafy neighbourhoods. One unexpected delight of living here is spotting the many birds that visit our gardens and skies. But sometimes, these feathered friends come inside seeking food, shelter, or a secure spot for their nests. If you’ve ever wondered what birds in Burnaby homes are most common, you’re in the right place.
When birds choose our homes, they aren’t trying to cause problems. They’re following their instincts to stay safe and raise their families. House vents, attics, and cozy eaves offer irresistible nesting places. The more you learn about the most common house birds locals see, the easier it is to coexist—and to know when to reach out for help from a professional.
Why Do Birds Choose Our Homes?
Burnaby’s mild weather and green city spaces make it a bird paradise. Our unique blend of urban development and nature means birds live all around us—sometimes sharing our living spaces.
So, what draws birds right up to—and occasionally into—our homes? Here are the main reasons:
- Shelter: Homes offer protection from bad weather and hungry predators.
- Warmth: Vents, attics, and chimneys provide cozy hideaways.
- Safety: Nesting in buildings keeps birds off the ground and away from threats.
According to Canadian wildlife studies, urban bird populations in cities like Burnaby are increasing by about 2% per year. Birds adapt quickly to life in the city, often taking advantage of man-made structures. That’s why you might hear them fluttering in the eaves or even see them darting into vent openings.
House Sparrows: Small but Social
House sparrows are one of the top birds in Burnaby homes. They’re found in nearly every city in Canada and have mastered urban living.
You’ll recognize house sparrows by their:
- Small size and brown-grey colouring
- Loud, cheerful chirping
- Tendency to travel in groups
Their favourite nesting spots:
- Bathroom or dryer exhaust vents
- Roof gaps and eave corners
- Inside wall cavities
Because they’re so adaptable, sparrows often outcompete other birds for prime nesting spots. They can wedge themselves into incredibly small spaces. But their messy nests and droppings can lead to problems inside your home—by blocking vents or even increasing fire risks. If you discover a nest, it’s wise to reach out to bird removal services Burnaby who can help in a safe and humane way.
Starlings: The Chattering Crowd
Starlings are among the most noticeable birds in Burnaby homes. If you hear chattering and whistling sounds from your chimney or attic, you might have starlings nearby.
What makes starlings stand out:
- Glossy black feathers with purple and green shine
- Impressive mimicry skills—they can copy other birds and even household sounds!
- Gather in large, noisy flocks called “murmurations”
Where starlings build their nests:
- Vents, chimneys, and attic spaces
- Gaps in siding or soffits
Starlings are persistent visitors. Sometimes, one nesting pair can become a whole flock! That’s a lot of noise and a lot of mess. Their nests can block ventilation and leave you with frequent cleaning chores. For a responsible solution, rely on professional bird removal services Burnaby—not DIY.
Swallows: Aerial Artists
Swallows are expert flyers. Watching them zip through the air catching bugs is a real treat, but they sometimes become surprise tenants in and around our homes.
Spotting swallows:
- Sleek, streamlined bodies with long, pointed wings
- Forked tails
- Build cup-like mud nests on buildings
Favourite nesting places:
- Under roof eaves
- On ledges above doors
- Inside barns, sheds, or open garages
One or two swallows can build a nest in just a few days. Their bug-hunting skills are great for natural insect control, but their muddy nests can stain walls or drip onto patios or walkways. Since swallows are protected in Canada, it’s essential to consult an expert for help if a nest is causing trouble.
Pigeons: The Neighbour You Know
Pigeons, or rock doves, are a world-famous urban bird, seen everywhere from city squares to suburban rooftops. They’re also one of the most common house birds Burnaby residents spot roosting at home.
Identifying pigeons:
- Medium-sized, often grey with iridescent neck feathers
- Short legs and a plump body
- Gentle cooing calls
Where they like to roost:
- Flat rooftops and balconies
- Window sills and ledges
- Attic rafters if they find an opening
Pigeons are loyal to their nesting sites, returning year after year. Their droppings are acidic and may damage wood or paint, and their nests can quickly clog gutters. A professional can help keep pigeons out humanely—and advise you on ways to make your home less attractive to returning flocks.
Woodpeckers: Nature’s Drummers
When you hear a steady tapping on your home’s siding, it might be a woodpecker at work. These birds help control insects, but sometimes their search for food or a nest can bring them close to home.
Woodpecker facts:
- Bright plumage, often red-crested
- Use their beaks to drum on wood
- Search for insects hiding in wooden beams or siding
Why woodpeckers visit homes:
- Drumming to find insects
- Making holes for nests
- Marking their territory
Statistics show that woodpecker-related repairs cost Canadian homeowners several hundred dollars annually on average, especially in older, wooden-faced homes. If you notice repeated damage, call a professional for advice on humane deterrents.
Creating a Bird-Friendly Yard
It’s enjoyable to watch birds in your garden—just not inside your home. You can make your outdoor space more inviting for birds and encourage them to nest where they belong.
Try these ideas:
- Native Plants: Fill your yard with shrubs, trees, and flowers local to Burnaby—they provide food and shelter.
- Water Source: Bird baths attract birds for a drink and a splash.
- Birdhouses: Offer nest boxes designed for species you enjoy.
Keep feeders clean and at a distance from your home to avoid drawing birds too close. A bird-friendly yard offers the best of both worlds—nature to watch and a bird-free home.
What to Do About Birds in Burnaby Homes
Sometimes, even with your best efforts, a bird finds its way inside. When you discover birds in Burnaby homes, act thoughtfully and avoid stress for both you and the birds.
Here’s why professional help is essential:
- Many birds, such as swallows, are protected by law in Canada.
- Trying to remove nests yourself can harm young birds still developing.
- Experienced teams know how to remove birds safely, identify species, and prevent them from coming back.
Instead of taking matters into your own hands, contact trustworthy bird removal services. They will use the safest and most effective methods to help feathered visitors find their way back outdoors.
Quick Tips: Keeping Birds Out of Your Home
Short on time? Remember these points:
- Inspect your roofline, eaves, and vents for gaps or loose covers
- Install vent covers approved for wildlife prevention
- Prune trees near your house to reduce easy access
- Schedule routine check-ups with a local wildlife professional
By staying alert and proactive, you reduce the risk of unwanted nests and encourage birds to choose natural places to settle.
The Joy of Coexisting
Having birds in your home can be a unique experience, but it’s best when everyone has their own space. Birds are a natural part of our city’s beauty and play a role in the balance of the local ecosystem. You might see house sparrows, starlings, swallows, pigeons, or even the occasional woodpecker.
Knowing which birds are most likely to visit—and learning their patterns—is the first step to sharing our city kindly. And if ever a bird ends up inside, you know who to call for compassionate assistance.
Living in harmony with birds means respecting their needs while caring for your home. Enjoy the sights and sounds they bring to Burnaby, and trust professionals for support when needed. By understanding more about the common house birds residents see each year, and making use of knowledgeable bird removal services, you can help keep your home and our songbird neighbours happy.
With simple steps, a little awareness, and a call to the experts when you need it, you can keep your home yours—and the birds where they belong: right outside your window, lighting up your day.
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