Wildlife

Control of pest birds

In zoned areas, permission from the owner of the property or area is required to feed birds. Feeding birds at the marketplace of Hämeenlinna is prohibited. Birds must not be fed on balconies without the consent of the housing company.

To prevent pest birds such as seagulls and pigeons, it is important that small birds are not fed in urban areas in a way that makes food available to pest birds as well. Furthermore, food waste must not be stored in open waste containers or composts. The feeding of birds must be discontinued if it causes nuisances, such as large swarms of birds, untidiness caused by droppings or an increase in rodents.

If activities carried out on a property attract pest birds to such an extent that they can be considered to cause a health hazard, health supervision may require the property owner or occupant to take measures to reduce the nuisance.

Most bird species are protected year-round. Unprotected species are also protected during their nesting season. The killing of protected animals always requires a permit. Further information on the necessary permits and protection periods is available from the Finnish Supervisory Agency.

If necessary, you can contact Environmental Specialist Hanna Tuominen regarding pest birds.

Rat control

The environmental health services of Hämeenlinna occasionally receive reports of rat sightings and inquiries regarding rat control. Rats can, for example, cause damage to structures and contaminate food supplies.

The eradication of rats and other pests is the responsibility of the property owner. The city does not carry out pest control on private properties.

To control rats

• do not feed birds in urban areas
• do not keep food waste in open waste containers or composts
• ensure that rats do not have access to food or nesting sites
• protect food and lavatory waste composts from rats

Prevention is important in rat control. When the food supply for rats decreases, the number of rats also decreases. Rodents thrive in yards if food, nesting sites and hiding places are available to them. Sealing gaps and lead-ins in buildings or installing a mesh are effective control methods.

If pests are observed, the property owner or occupant must set poison baits. Poison must be placed so that pets or children cannot access it, for example by using a bait box.

Further information on rodent control on the Tukes website

If necessary, you can contact Health Inspector Heidi Saarinen regarding rat-related matters.