Pest Birds and Their Control

In Southeast Texas, three bird species—pigeons, sparrows, and starlings—are legally classified as pests and are not protected by federal or state laws. Individuals with a state pest control license can control these birds at will. Typically, the need to remove them arises from property defacement due to droppings or HVAC equipment clogging caused by feathers. Muscovy ducks enjoy limited protection and can be controlled when they become a nuisance. Other birds, like woodpeckers and seagulls, are more strictly protected but can be managed using non-lethal methods when they become problematic.