How to Get Rid of Birds: A Comprehensive Guide to Bird Control

Birds, while often beautiful and enjoyable to watch, can quickly become a nuisance when they decide to take up residence on or around your property. From noisy chirping at dawn to unsightly droppings and potential damage to structures, dealing with unwanted birds requires a strategic and humane approach. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions on how to effectively get rid of birds and prevent them from returning, while ensuring their well-being.

Why Do Birds Become a Problem?

Understanding why birds are attracted to your property is the first step in effective bird control. Several factors can contribute to their presence:

* **Food Source:** Birds are constantly searching for food. Open garbage cans, pet food left outdoors, bird feeders (ironically), fruit trees, and gardens overflowing with berries and seeds are all irresistible attractions.
* **Water Source:** Access to water is crucial for birds. Bird baths, ponds, puddles, and even leaky gutters can provide the hydration they need.
* **Shelter and Nesting Sites:** Birds seek shelter from the elements and safe places to build their nests. Trees, shrubs, eaves, ledges, gutters, chimneys, and any nook or cranny on a building can serve as potential nesting sites.
* **Protection from Predators:** Areas that offer protection from predators, such as dense shrubs or high ledges, are particularly appealing to birds.

Identifying the Bird Species

Before implementing any bird control measures, it’s essential to identify the specific bird species causing the problem. Different species have different habits and preferences, and some are protected by law. Knowing the species will help you choose the most effective and appropriate control methods. Common nuisance birds include:

* **Pigeons:** Known for their large flocks and messy droppings.
* **Starlings:** Highly adaptable and often congregate in large numbers, causing significant noise and damage.
* **Sparrows:** Small but persistent, often nesting in building crevices.
* **Gulls:** Common near coastal areas, known for their scavenging behavior.
* **Crows and Ravens:** Intelligent and adaptable, often causing damage to gardens and crops.
* **Woodpeckers:** Can damage wooden structures while searching for insects or creating nesting cavities.

Consult with local wildlife experts or ornithologists if you are unsure about the species. Be aware of local and federal laws protecting certain bird species. It is illegal to harm or kill protected birds without the proper permits.

Humane Bird Control Strategies

The key to effective bird control is to implement humane and ethical strategies that discourage birds from using your property without causing them harm. Here’s a detailed breakdown of various methods:

1. Removing Food and Water Sources

* **Secure Garbage Cans:** Use tightly sealed garbage cans and keep them covered at all times. Regularly clean garbage cans to eliminate food odors.
* **Store Pet Food Indoors:** Avoid leaving pet food outdoors, especially overnight. If you must feed pets outside, remove any leftover food promptly.
* **Eliminate Standing Water:** Drain puddles, repair leaky faucets and gutters, and regularly clean bird baths to prevent algae buildup. Consider removing bird baths altogether if birds are becoming a significant problem.
* **Harvest Fruits and Vegetables Promptly:** Pick ripe fruits and vegetables as soon as they are ready to prevent birds from feeding on them. Cover fruit trees and vegetable gardens with netting.
* **Clean Up Spilled Birdseed:** If you use bird feeders, clean up any spilled birdseed regularly to avoid attracting unwanted birds. Consider using bird feeders with trays to catch spilled seed.
* **Reduce Insect Populations:** Control insect populations around your property, as insects are a primary food source for many birds. Use natural pest control methods whenever possible.

2. Disrupting Nesting Sites

* **Regular Inspections:** Conduct regular inspections of your property, particularly in the spring before nesting season begins, to identify potential nesting sites. Pay close attention to eaves, ledges, gutters, chimneys, and any crevices in buildings.
* **Remove Existing Nests:** If you find nests, remove them promptly, but only if they are unoccupied. Be sure you are not disturbing nesting birds during breeding season as many species are federally protected during this time. Check with your local wildlife authorities to ensure compliance with local laws.
* **Block Access to Nesting Sites:** Once nests have been removed, block access to potential nesting sites using bird netting, wire mesh, or other barriers. Seal up any holes or crevices in buildings.
* **Prune Trees and Shrubs:** Regularly prune trees and shrubs to reduce their density and eliminate potential nesting sites. Remove dead or overgrown branches.
* **Install Chimney Caps:** Install chimney caps to prevent birds from nesting in chimneys. Choose a cap that is appropriately sized for your chimney and made of durable materials.
* **Clean Gutters Regularly:** Clean gutters regularly to prevent debris buildup that can attract birds and provide nesting material. Install gutter guards to prevent debris from accumulating.

3. Using Bird Deterrents

Bird deterrents are designed to discourage birds from landing or nesting on your property. Several types of deterrents are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

* **Bird Spikes:** Bird spikes are rows of blunt needles that prevent birds from landing on surfaces. They are effective on ledges, window sills, and other flat surfaces. Choose spikes made of stainless steel or UV-resistant plastic for durability. Install spikes securely using adhesive or screws.
* **Bird Netting:** Bird netting is a mesh barrier that prevents birds from accessing specific areas. It is effective for protecting fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and other vulnerable areas. Choose netting with a small mesh size to prevent birds from getting tangled. Install netting securely and ensure that it is properly tensioned to prevent sagging.
* **Bird Wire:** Bird wire is a system of thin wires that are strung along surfaces to prevent birds from landing. It is less visible than bird spikes and is effective on ledges, railings, and other narrow surfaces. Install bird wire according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
* **Visual Deterrents:** Visual deterrents use flashing lights, reflective surfaces, or predator decoys to scare birds away. They are most effective when used in combination with other control methods. Examples include:
* **Reflective Tape:** Hang strips of reflective tape from trees, bushes, or buildings to create a visual deterrent.
* **Scarecrows:** Place scarecrows in gardens or fields to deter birds from feeding on crops.
* **Predator Decoys:** Use plastic owls, hawks, or other predator decoys to scare birds away. Move the decoys regularly to prevent birds from becoming accustomed to them.
* **Mirrors:** Hang mirrors or reflective surfaces to create a visual deterrent.
* **Auditory Deterrents:** Auditory deterrents use sounds to scare birds away. They are most effective when used in combination with other control methods. Examples include:
* **Ultrasonic Devices:** Emit high-frequency sounds that are irritating to birds but inaudible to humans. Their effectiveness is debated.
* **Noise Machines:** Play recorded bird distress calls or predator sounds to scare birds away. Change the sounds regularly to prevent birds from becoming accustomed to them.
* **Wind Chimes:** The sound of wind chimes can deter some birds.
* **Bird Repellents:** Bird repellents are chemical or natural substances that deter birds from landing or nesting in treated areas. They are available in liquid, gel, and spray formulations. Apply repellents according to the manufacturer’s instructions and reapply regularly, especially after rain.
* **Methyl Anthranilate:** A common ingredient in bird repellents, it is a grape-like flavor and is generally safe for birds but unpleasant.
* **Capsaicin:** Derived from chili peppers, capsaicin can irritate birds’ skin and deter them from landing on treated surfaces.

4. Professional Bird Control Services

If you have a severe bird infestation or are unable to effectively control birds using DIY methods, consider hiring a professional bird control service. Professionals have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively remove birds and prevent them from returning. They can also provide advice on long-term bird management strategies. When choosing a bird control service, be sure to:

* **Check their credentials:** Ensure that the company is licensed and insured.
* **Ask about their methods:** Make sure they use humane and ethical bird control methods.
* **Get references:** Check with past clients to see if they were satisfied with the service.
* **Get a written estimate:** Obtain a detailed estimate of the cost of the service before hiring the company.

Preventing Future Bird Problems

Once you have successfully removed birds from your property, it is essential to take steps to prevent them from returning. Here are some tips for long-term bird management:

* **Maintain Your Property:** Keep your property clean and well-maintained. Regularly clean up food scraps, trim vegetation, and repair any damage to buildings.
* **Continue Using Deterrents:** Continue using bird deterrents, such as bird spikes, netting, or visual deterrents, to discourage birds from landing or nesting on your property.
* **Monitor for Signs of Bird Activity:** Regularly monitor your property for signs of bird activity, such as droppings, nests, or bird sightings. Take action promptly if you notice any signs of bird activity.
* **Educate Your Neighbors:** Encourage your neighbors to take steps to control birds on their properties as well. Bird control is most effective when it is implemented on a community-wide basis.
* **Consider Professional Consultations:** Regularly consult with wildlife professionals to ensure you are following best practices to keep the birds away.

Legal Considerations

It is important to be aware of the legal protections afforded to certain bird species. Many bird species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), which prohibits the killing, harming, or possessing of migratory birds, their nests, or their eggs without a permit. Before implementing any bird control measures, check with your local wildlife authorities to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. You should never use poisons or inhumane traps to get rid of birds.

DIY Bird Repellent Recipes

Here are a couple of DIY bird repellent recipes you can try, keeping in mind that their effectiveness can vary:

* **Cayenne Pepper Spray:** Mix 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper powder with 1 gallon of water. Add a few drops of dish soap as a surfactant. Spray on plants and affected areas. Reapply after rain. Test a small area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the plants.
* **Vinegar Spray:** Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray on non-porous surfaces where birds congregate. Avoid spraying on plants, as vinegar can harm them. This is better for hard surfaces.

Remember to always wear gloves and eye protection when mixing and applying these solutions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

* **Using Inhumane Methods:** Avoid using poisons, glue traps, or other inhumane methods that can harm or kill birds. These methods are not only unethical but may also be illegal.
* **Ignoring the Root Cause:** Simply scaring birds away without addressing the underlying causes of the infestation will only provide a temporary solution. Focus on removing food and water sources and disrupting nesting sites.
* **Waiting Too Long to Take Action:** The longer you wait to address a bird problem, the more difficult and costly it will be to resolve. Take action as soon as you notice signs of bird activity.
* **Giving up Too Easily:** Bird control can be challenging and may require persistence and patience. Don’t give up if your initial efforts are not successful. Try different methods and consult with professionals if needed.
* **Not complying with regulations:** Ensure you are following all local regulations regarding wildlife management.

Conclusion

Getting rid of birds requires a comprehensive and humane approach that addresses the underlying causes of the problem. By removing food and water sources, disrupting nesting sites, using bird deterrents, and taking steps to prevent future infestations, you can effectively control birds on your property without harming them. Remember to be patient, persistent, and ethical in your efforts. If you are unsure about the best course of action, consult with a professional bird control service. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a bird-free environment while ensuring the well-being of these fascinating creatures.