The Hidden Cost of Bird Damage to Public Art and Monuments

Multiple pigeons perch on the head, shoulders, and hands of this stone statue, leaving visible streaks and discoloration from droppings — a clear example of how persistent bird activity can stain and degrade exposed monuments over time.

Birds perched on a monument may seem harmless, but the cost of letting them stay adds up quickly. From surface corrosion to safety hazards, bird activity doesn’t just ruin the look of

outdoor art, it creates long-term financial and liability risks for municipalities and corporations.

So, what does bird damage really cost? And why is prevention always the smarter choice?

How Do Birds Damage Public Art?

Birds damage public art through:

• Acidic droppings that corrode metal, stone, and painted finishes

• Nesting materials that stain surfaces and trap moisture

• Perching activity that wears down delicate edges and features

Left unchecked, these issues require specialized cleaning and often full-scale restoration.

What Does Restoration Really Cost?

• Routine cleaning: $2,000–$10,000 per year for large installations

• Full restoration: Tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands for significant corrosion or staining

• Historic preservation: Even higher costs when conservation experts must follow strict restoration guidelines

These figures often exceed the cost of installing permanent bird control solutions.

Does Insurance Cover Bird Damage?

In most cases, no. Standard property insurance excludes “wear and tear” or gradual deterioration, which is how bird damage occurs. For historic monuments, special riders may be required, and these come at a premium.

The Smarter Investment: Prevention

Why prevention costs less than restoration:

• One-time installation of custom bird control (fine-wire systems, netting, or custom mounts) is far less expensive than repeated cleanings and restorations.

• Reduces liability risks from slippery droppings around monuments.

• Protects cultural and brand value by keeping installations pristine.

Prevention isn’t just cost-effective, it’s proactive risk management.

Quick Takeaway: Why Prevention Pays

Preventing bird damage to public art:

1. Saves money by avoiding costly restorations

2. Reduces liability for slips and falls

3. Preserves cultural and brand value

4. Provides long-term protection with low-visibility solutions

Final Thoughts

The damage birds cause isn’t just cosmetic, it’s financial, cultural, and reputational. For municipalities and corporations, proactive bird control costs a fraction of restoration and helps protect irreplaceable public art for years to come.

Don’t wait until damage becomes permanent. Contact us today to explore custom, discreet solutions for your sculptures or monuments.