Watching birds build their nests is a relaxing pastime, but it can cause anxiety if the birds construct them inside your attic. Unlike chickens that lay eggs year-round, wild birds lay eggs in spring and early summer, so there are only certain seasons when you have to worry about this happening. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about when birds lay eggs and how to prevent a bird infestation in your Montreal home.
When Do Birds Lay Eggs?
In Québec, birds lay eggs in spring and early summer, and you may see babies anytime from April to August. The birds you have seen all winter are the first to build their nests. Because they get such an early start, the following species have time to raise up to three clutches of young before summer’s end:
- European starling
- House sparrow
- Mourning dove
Through late May, a steady stream of migratory birds returns from spending the winter in warmer climates. Because they get a later start, many of these species are only able to nest once before it is time to fly back south with their babies.
Do All Birds Lay Eggs?
From the tallest ostrich to the tiniest hummingbird, all birds begin their lives inside an egg. Unlike mammals and even some reptile and fish species, no birds give birth to live babies. Chicks develop inside the egg until they are mature enough to survive outside it. After hatching, their parents protect them until they can fly.
You can even identify birds based on the appearance of their eggs and the nest they are in. For example, robins lay blue eggs in a cup nest they make from twigs, grass, and mud. Chickadees, on the other hand, will only lay their white and brown speckled eggs inside a tree cavity. Some birds, such as killdeer, lay eggs directly on the ground.
What Are Some Signs You Need Bird Control in Montreal?
You can tell when birds lay eggs inside your home by looking for some of these signs:
- The coming and going of birds through a small hole on the outside of your house
- Bird droppings on the ground below
- The sound of chicks peeping
- Nesting materials such as grass or twigs sticking out of openings
You should also pay attention to the species of bird you suspect to have invaded your home. The most common culprits in Montreal are the European starling and the house sparrow. Both species have adapted to living around humans and regularly nest in attics and soffits.
How Can I Prevent a Bird Infestation?
Maintaining your house in good condition is the best way to keep birds out. Seal any holes in that would allow attic access, and keep eavestroughs free from debris. Placing an owl or snake decoy on your roof is sometimes an effective way to scare off the birds you don’t want.
If you enjoy feeding birds, offer food exclusively to species that won’t outwear their welcome. Consider switching from large, easy-access feeders to the following types:
- Hummingbird feeders filled with nectar
- Mesh bags filled with tiny thistle seeds for finches
- Suet cages for woodpeckers and nuthatches
- Mealworm feeders for bluebirds
Call Skedaddle When Birds Lay Eggs in Your Attic
If you suspect that birds are nesting inside your home, don’t try to handle the situation by yourself. Skedaddle technicians have the proper safety equipment to safely reach the upper parts of your house so you don’t have to risk climbing a ladder.
Canadian law protects some avian species, and it is important to know what you are dealing with when birds lay eggs on your property. We can identify what type of birds you have and determine whether there are babies in the nest. Contact us to evaluate your bird problem today.
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