
Common Bird Problems in East Tennessee
Most bird complaints we handle involve birds nesting in places where they create property damage or health concerns. The most common scenarios include:
- Dryer and bathroom vent nesting. Birds, particularly starlings and sparrows, frequently build nests inside dryer vents and bathroom exhaust vents. The nesting material blocks airflow, reduces dryer efficiency, and creates a fire hazard from lint buildup behind the blockage.
- Soffit and fascia nesting. Birds exploit gaps in soffits, damaged fascia, and openings around the roofline to nest in the spaces between your roof and exterior walls. This can lead to droppings accumulating inside the structure and secondary pest problems from mites and other parasites.
- Attic invasions. Birds that gain access through damaged vents, open gable ends, or gaps in the roofline can create significant contamination from droppings and nesting material.
- Chimney nesting. Chimney swifts and other species nest inside uncapped chimneys, blocking flues and creating noise, odor, and parasite concerns.
How Our Bird Removal Works
Many bird species in Tennessee are protected under federal and state laws, including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means removal methods, timing, and handling must comply with specific regulations. Our technicians understand which species are protected, when removal work can legally proceed, and which methods are appropriate for each situation.
Inspection
We identify the species, locate all nesting sites, and assess whether active nests with eggs or young are present. This determines the approach and timing for safe, legal removal.
Removal and Nest Cleanup
We remove accessible nests, nesting material, and droppings from vents, soffits, attics, and other affected areas.
Exclusion
We install vent covers, screen openings, and seal gaps to prevent birds from re-entering. For vent nesting, we install professional-grade vent guards that allow airflow while keeping birds out. Our exclusion and repair services address the structural vulnerabilities that gave birds access in the first place.
Bird Barrier Installation
As Bird Barrier certified installers, we use professional-grade deterrent products for persistent bird pressure on ledges, rooflines, and commercial building exteriors. These solutions are designed for lasting results and are the same systems used on commercial and institutional properties.
Is a Bird in My Dryer Vent Dangerous?
Yes. Nesting material in a dryer vent blocks airflow and traps lint, which is highly flammable. This is a genuine fire hazard. We remove the nesting material, clean the vent, and install a vent guard to prevent it from happening again.
If you can hear birds in your vent or notice reduced dryer efficiency, reduced airflow from your exhaust vent, or can see nesting material at the vent opening, call us before the problem worsens. Dryer vent fires are preventable.
Do Woodpeckers Count as a Bird Problem?
Woodpecker damage is often a secondary issue caused by an underlying insect problem, such as carpenter bees nesting in your wood. We can assess the situation and address both the woodpecker activity and the pest problem driving it.
Many birds in Tennessee are protected by federal law, and removing an active nest with eggs or young can result in fines. If you're unsure of the species or whether the nest is active, call a professional before disturbing it. Once the entry points are secured with proper exclusion, birds can't re-establish nesting sites in the same locations.
Contact Critter Wranglers for Bird Removal Today
Critter Wranglers is locally owned and operated, licensed by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, certified by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and fully bonded and insured. Our technicians are Bird Barrier certified installers, which means we use professional-grade bird exclusion products designed for lasting results.
If birds are nesting in your vents, attic, or anywhere on your property where they're causing problems, contact us today to schedule your free inspection, or call us at (865) 973-1095.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just remove a bird nest myself?
It depends on the species. Many birds in Tennessee are protected by federal law, and removing an active nest with eggs or young can result in fines. If you're unsure of the species or whether the nest is active, call a professional before disturbing it.
Birds are nesting in my dryer vent. Is that dangerous?
Yes. Nesting material in a dryer vent blocks airflow and traps lint, which is highly flammable. This is a genuine fire hazard. We remove the nesting material, clean the vent, and install a vent guard to prevent it from happening again.
How do you keep birds from coming back?
Exclusion is the key. We install vent covers, screen openings, seal gaps in soffits and fascia, and cap chimneys where appropriate. Once the entry points are secured, birds can't re-establish nesting sites in the same locations.
Do you handle woodpecker damage?
Woodpecker damage is often a secondary issue caused by an underlying insect problem, such as carpenter bees nesting in your wood. We can assess the situation and address both the woodpecker activity and the pest problem driving it.
