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

Blackbirds, with their glossy black plumage and melodic calls, are often welcomed visitors in gardens. However, when their numbers swell and their behavior becomes destructive, they can quickly become a nuisance. From raiding fruit crops to scattering newly sown seeds and making a mess with their droppings, blackbirds can pose real problems for homeowners and gardeners alike. This comprehensive guide will explore effective strategies to deter these birds, ranging from simple DIY methods to more advanced solutions.

Understanding Blackbird Behavior

Before diving into control methods, it’s important to understand the behavior of blackbirds. This knowledge will help you implement the most effective strategies.

• Diet: Blackbirds are omnivores, feeding on insects, worms, fruits, seeds, and even scraps of human food. They are particularly attracted to berry bushes, fruit trees, and vegetable gardens.
• Nesting: Blackbirds build nests in bushes, trees, and sometimes in buildings. They are most active during breeding season (spring and summer) when they are raising their young.
• Social Behavior: Blackbirds are social birds and often forage in groups. This means that where you see one, there are likely more nearby.
• Territorial: While they flock for food, they can also be territorial, especially during nesting season.

Non-Lethal Methods to Deter Blackbirds

The focus should always be on non-lethal methods when dealing with nuisance wildlife. These approaches are humane and effective in the long run. Here are various tactics you can implement:

1. Habitat Modification

The first step in deterring blackbirds is to make your property less appealing to them. This involves modifying the environment to reduce their access to food and shelter.

• Trim Overhanging Branches: Blackbirds often perch on overhanging branches to look for food or as a resting spot. Trimming these back can make your yard less accessible and desirable. Focus on areas near fruit trees, vegetable patches, or other areas where they frequent. This not only discourages them, it also can promote healthier tree growth.
• Clear Dense Vegetation: Blackbirds prefer thick bushes and shrubs for nesting and shelter. Thinning out or removing these areas can reduce their appeal. If you have hedges, consider pruning them so they’re less dense. Replacing very dense shrubs with low-growing alternatives can deter nesting.
• Maintain a Clean Yard: Remove fallen fruit, spilled birdseed, and other food sources. Make sure trash cans are tightly closed. Blackbirds are opportunistic and will readily take advantage of readily available food. Regular maintenance is crucial for prevention. Clean up after any outdoor picnics or BBQs promptly.
• Proper Compost Management: Make sure your compost bin is properly closed. Blackbirds are attracted to food scraps in open compost bins. Consider a compost bin with a secure lid or an enclosed composter.

2. Physical Barriers

Physical barriers are a highly effective way to keep blackbirds out of specific areas.

• Netting: Cover fruit trees, berry bushes, and vegetable gardens with bird netting. Make sure the mesh size is small enough to prevent blackbirds from getting through. Secure the netting well so that it cannot get dislodged or easily pulled up, allowing the birds to reach in.
• Wire Mesh Fencing: If you are growing low crops, you can create enclosures using wire mesh fencing. The mesh should be small enough to prevent them from getting through. Bury the bottom of the mesh a few inches in the ground so they cannot dig underneath.
• Row Covers: For vegetables or delicate plants, floating row covers made from fine mesh fabric offer great protection. These covers are easy to install and are especially helpful during the growing season. They allow sunlight and water to reach your plants while excluding birds.
• Reflective Tape: Hang reflective tape in your garden. The flashing and movement of the tape can startle birds and make the area less appealing. Ensure the tape moves freely with the breeze. You can also use reflective pinwheels for this effect.

3. Visual Deterrents

Blackbirds, like many birds, are easily startled by visual disturbances. Implement these visual deterrents to keep them away:

• Scarecrows: Place scarecrows in your garden. Though they might work better for larger birds, they can also have some effect on blackbirds, especially when moved periodically. For increased effectiveness, dress the scarecrow in old clothes and change its pose every few days.
• Predator Decoys: Use plastic owls, hawks, or other predator decoys. Place them in different locations and move them frequently so that the birds don’t get used to them. Place the decoys on posts or trees, in open areas where the birds will notice them.
• Reflective Objects: Hang shiny objects such as old CDs, aluminum foil, or specialized bird-repelling devices. The light reflecting off these objects will disorient and deter blackbirds. Ensure these items are in clear view and move them around occasionally.

4. Auditory Deterrents

Blackbirds are sensitive to noises. Here are some auditory deterrents that can be effective:

• Ultrasonic Bird Repellents: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are inaudible to humans but can be disturbing to birds. Experiment with various models to find one that’s effective. Note that effectiveness can vary depending on the unit and its location. Place strategically in your yard for maximum coverage.
• Bird Repellent Sounds: Play recordings of bird distress calls or predator calls. This can create the illusion of danger and discourage blackbirds from staying in the area. Ensure to vary the sounds and locations, as birds can get accustomed to repetitive auditory deterrents.
• Wind Chimes: The constant, unpredictable noise of wind chimes can help keep birds away. Choose chimes that are very loud and made of metal. Place them in areas where blackbirds are known to congregate.
• Human Activity: Sometimes simply being present in your yard and making noise can deter blackbirds. Regular gardening or playing outdoors can make your property less inviting.

5. Taste and Scent Deterrents

While taste and scent deterrents are not as reliable as other methods for blackbirds, they can offer some supplementary control.

• Grape Seed Extract: Spray grape seed extract on your plants. It is believed to have a taste that birds find unpleasant. Be sure to reapply after rain or watering. This is safe for your plants and the environment.
• Hot Pepper Spray: Create a solution of water mixed with hot pepper flakes. This spray will give plants a taste that birds do not like. Use with caution and test on a small area of the plant first. Reapply frequently, especially after rain or watering.

6. Bird Spikes and Wire

For areas like ledges, fences, and rooftops where blackbirds tend to perch, bird spikes and wires are effective. These methods make it uncomfortable for birds to land.

• Bird Spikes: Install bird spikes on ledges, railings, and other surfaces where birds perch. These come in plastic or stainless steel and are harmless but will prevent birds from landing and resting in the area.
• Bird Wire: Use tensioned wire to deter birds from landing on surfaces. The wires are thin but provide an unstable landing base, making it uncomfortable for the birds.

Things to Avoid When Trying to Deter Blackbirds

While striving to get rid of blackbirds, it’s crucial to avoid methods that are harmful or could create other problems.

• Poisons: Avoid using any kind of poison. This is not only inhumane but can also pose a risk to other animals, pets, and even humans. It’s best to always use non-lethal deterrent methods.
• Traps: Unless you are a trained professional, avoid trapping birds. Incorrectly used traps can cause injury or death to the bird or other unintended wildlife. Trapping should be a last resort, and only if you know how to handle the trapped bird safely and legally.
• Glue Boards: These are inhumane and indiscriminately trap any animals that come into contact with them. Avoid using them at all costs.
• Harmful Chemical Sprays: Avoid using harmful chemical sprays that could potentially damage plants, other animals, or the environment. Focus on natural and non-toxic options.
• Moving Nests: Moving or destroying nests can be illegal and is generally discouraged during the breeding season. If you have a nest in an area that cannot be tolerated and the young have fledged the nest, removal is acceptable; however, it’s important to be sure the nest is vacant.

Integrated Pest Management Approach

The most effective way to manage blackbirds is to use an integrated approach, combining several of the above methods. No single method is a silver bullet. Here’s a good approach:

1. Start with habitat modification: Remove food sources and trim back vegetation.
2. Use physical barriers: Protect vulnerable crops with netting and wire mesh.
3. Add visual and auditory deterrents: Use scarecrows, reflective objects, and noise devices.
4. Monitor and adapt: Observe which methods are most effective and adjust your strategy as needed.
5. Be patient: It may take time and consistent effort to deter blackbirds completely.

Long-Term Solutions

Long-term solutions involve incorporating these strategies into your routine and adapting as needed. Here’s what to aim for:

• Consistent Maintenance: Regularly clean up fallen fruit, spilled seeds, and trash.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Adjust your deterrent methods depending on the time of year. For example, netting should be most prevalent during harvest season.
• Varied Deterrents: Rotate deterrents so that birds don’t get used to any one method.
• Plant Selection: If possible, choose plant varieties that are less appealing to blackbirds or are more resistant to damage.
• Community Effort: Consider collaborating with neighbors to manage blackbird populations on a larger scale.

Conclusion

Dealing with blackbirds can be frustrating, but by implementing a combination of habitat modification, physical barriers, visual and auditory deterrents, and regular maintenance, you can effectively reduce their presence. It’s crucial to choose humane and non-lethal methods, and to use an integrated approach that combines multiple strategies for the most success. By understanding their behavior and implementing these long-term solutions, you can enjoy your garden without the problems these birds may cause. Keep in mind that patience and persistence are key components to achieving your goals.