Twenty-five years of managing birds associated with buildings at the University of California, Berkeley

Abstract

Information concerning 19 species of birds associated with 28 buildings on the University of California at Berkeley campus has been collected for 25 years. Sixteen species are included under three minor associations (temporary roosters, building invaders, and species that nest on (or in) buildings in small numbers). Barn owls and ravens have caused intense, though localized problems. Two additional species (cliff swallows and feral pigeons) have caused major problems. Feral pigeons have caused the most difficult problems to resolve. Case histories are used to describe problems associated with these birds, and control strategies for them. Cooper's hawks have nested in central campus locations for the last four years and their contributions to pigeon control, interactions with campus buildings, and adjustments to their presence are discussed.