How should I bird-proof my vents?

I just learned that the pest control company that I used for some bugs doesn't really do birds. So I am now at square one to figure out how to keep the starlings(?) from building another nest in my attic. I have a VM SFH that is 3 years old, and the birds have made their way into the vents at the top of the house for at least 2 years in a row.

Does anyone have experience fixing their vents? I am going to need to find someone to do this for me, but if you can help me find the right solution (and maybe the right contractor), I would be thankful.

 

Prevention of Wildlife in House Attics and Vents (Birds, Snakes, etc.)

pamd and others--

I saw your post regarding birds in the house and attic vents. Here are some web sites and links below for your perusal (and others) with the same issues--

Also, a listing for a wildlife rehabilitator across the USA (local and national) to remove unwanted "pesky critters" is linked also. The Wildlife Care of Ventura, California has links for information. Just click on tabs--"Birdlife Rescue" for bird queries and "General Information" tab under the "Nuisance Wildlife Help" section for other related information on removals of wildlife, etc.

www.wildlifecareofventura.org (Wildlife Care of Ventura, California's web site info and links. Great resources.)

Foodie

 

I know they make screen covers for the vents too that will prevent repeat entries.

 

FWIW, we hired Envirotech Pest Services (http://www.envirotechpestservices.com/), who came out today and installed grates (or something) under the vent covers. Seemed very professional (unlike Superior, who told us they don't do birds, without telling us they don't do birds).

 

Does anyone know if these vents are available anywhere? I have a plastic "clip on" vent cover for my dryer on the outside and the "clips" broke. So I need to replace the cover. Home Depot says they don't carry them. I'm in a K. Hav (Washington Homes) house. Any help would be appreciated.

 

For pamD, I was wondering what you paid for the having the grates installed and were you happy with the service by Envirotech?

 

This might be what you're looking for if it's the right type of vent. Or maybe this kind.

Amazon has a few different types for sale. Good luck!

 

Yeah, that "air vent/gable shutter" is exactly what is letting the starlings in all my neighbors houses. The "dryer vent Bird Guard" is more like what worked for us, after the birds got past the wire mesh we had installed behind the vent cover.

If we remember correctly, it was a few hundred dollars to put in a couple of covers. Envirotech did a good job, once we were finally able to get them to come when they said they would.

 

Try local hardware store and get a yard or so of hardware cloth (1/2 "wire mesh). If you just bend the edges within the vent (behind the louvers, if you have them) it will stop birds. I had same problem in dryer exhaust vent. Also will stop any other critters.