BIRD SCARE PROGRAM UNDERWAY IN THE CITY OF FREDERICK.
(Fleming Avenue Area)

Frederick, Md. -- The City of Frederick Department of Public Works will be participating in the bird eradication program in the vicinity of the 500 block of Fleming Avenue beginning Monday, October 8 and continuing through Wednesday, October 10, 2007 beginning at sundown each evening. A bird gun, a City approved firearm, will be used to scare the birds from that area. Residents should be aware that this gun does produce a very loud sound. The City can only offer a form of temporary relief. The City responds to citizen requests if the offending birds are in the Right of Way trees, not private property. These right-of-way trees are clearly identified in the State Roadside Tree Care Law and as a rule of thumb are within the City Limits, and between the curb and sidewalk or in a median area (maintained by City Staff). Birds in street trees are attracted to the populated areas due to the food sources and the warmth of the pavements and homes. Bird complaints can be registered by calling 301.600.1440.

IMPACT TO AREA:

For at least the last 50 years, the City of Frederick has faced flocking bird issues that are problematic throughout the City. The offending birds are Starlings and or Crows. The City of Frederick can and has offered a temporary form of relief for many years through the use of pyrotechnics, audio bird distress tapes and minimization/alteration of suitable environment where possible. The most effective time for control is around dusk when these gregarious birds are looking for a roost for the night. These problems begin mid to late summer and go on well into the winter. Public Works staff perform this courtesy patrols for an average of 2 to 5 days. There are many other bird control options, but these techniques are approved by the Humane Society and have proven to be effective for short terms. Please note that the City is not responsible for cleaning up the mess from these unwanted avians.