How to Get Rid of Birds on Your Property

How to Get Rid of Birds on Your Property

Dealing with nuisance birds can be frustrating, especially when they’re damaging your property, creating messes, or disrupting your garden. While some birds bring beauty and song, others can quickly become a headache. The good news? There are effective, legal, and humane ways to deter these pests without breaking the law.

Understanding Bird Deterrents

Most bird species are protected by law, making it illegal to trap or kill them. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects the majority of birds in the U.S., so interfering with active nests or harming birds is against the law. However, there are plenty of legal and humane deterrents you can use to keep birds away from your property.

Bird Netting

Bird netting is one of the most effective and widely used methods for keeping birds off your property. Typically made from plastic mesh, bird netting acts as a physical barrier that prevents birds from accessing certain areas. It’s commonly used to protect crops, but it can also be purchased in smaller quantities for home use.

• Bird netting is long-lasting and inexpensive.
• It’s easy to install and can be used to cover gardens, patios, and even parts of your home.
• For woodpeckers, use netting with a mesh size of 1 inch or smaller, hung at least 3 inches from the surface to be protected.

Netting is especially useful for preventing birds from nesting in gutters, eaves, and other hard-to-reach places.

Decoys and Visual Deterrents

Decoys of predatory animals like owls, coyotes, and snakes can be effective at first, as birds are less likely to congregate where they think predators are present. However, birds quickly learn that these decoys pose no real threat and will eventually ignore them.

• Move decoys around your yard periodically to extend their effectiveness.
• Use reflective tape, scare balloons, or other visual deterrents for added impact.
• These methods are best used in combination with other deterrents for longer-lasting results.

Sound Devices

Sound devices, such as ultrasonic repellents or recorded predator calls, can also help keep birds away. These devices emit sounds that birds find unpleasant or threatening, encouraging them to leave the area.

• Sound devices are most effective when used in conjunction with visual deterrents.
• They may lose effectiveness over time as birds become accustomed to the sounds.

Electric Barriers

Low-current electric barriers are among the most effective bird repellent systems, though they are also the most expensive. These barriers deliver a mild shock that is uncomfortable but not harmful to birds, discouraging them from landing or roosting in the area.

• Electric barriers are ideal for high-traffic areas or places where other deterrents have failed.
• They require professional installation and regular maintenance.

How To Get Rid of Bird Nests

Before removing or disturbing a bird nest, it’s important to understand the legal protections in place. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act makes it illegal to interfere with the active nest of a protected bird without a permit. It’s often difficult for non-experts to identify which birds and nests are protected, so it’s best to consult a professional if you have concerns.

• DIY prevention methods like netting or wire are the best way to keep birds from nesting in the first place.
• If you need to remove a nest, contact local wildlife control for guidance and options.

Seasonal Bird Control Strategies

Bird activity varies throughout the year, so your approach to bird control should change with the seasons.

Spring

• Birds start nesting in gutters and eaves.
• Install chimney caps and cover vents with wire mesh.
• Clean gutters regularly to prevent nesting.

Summer

• Birds are more active, causing messes in gardens and around entryways.
• Use tape, visual deterrents, and sound devices to keep them away.

Fall

• Birds become more aggressive and forage before migration.
• Use bird spikes, natural repellents, and predator decoys to keep them from roosting on rooflines.

Winter

• Birds, especially pigeons and starlings, look for warm places like attics and soffits.
• Seal openings, repair insulation, and check roof tiles to keep them out.

How to Get Rid of Woodpeckers

Woodpeckers are protected by the Migratory Bird Act of 1918, so it’s illegal to harm them. However, there are several humane ways to deter them from your property.

• Bird netting with a mesh size of 1 inch or smaller, hung at least 3 inches from the surface, is the most reliable method to prevent woodpeckers from accessing damaged areas.
• Woodpeckers are attracted to homes with insect infestations, so eliminating bees, ants, and termites through pest control treatment can reduce their interest in your property.
• Redirect woodpeckers by providing alternative food sources, such as suet feeders, placed away from your home. Gradually move the feeder further away each day until the birds are trained to avoid your property.
• Cover any drilled areas with foam, netting, cloth, or chicken wire to prevent further damage.

Preventing Woodpeckers From Returning

For a more permanent solution, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommends bird netting as the only product that reliably keeps woodpeckers away. Regular maintenance and inspection of your property can also help prevent future infestations.

When to Hire a Professional

While many bird control methods can be done as DIY projects, there are situations where hiring a professional pest control company is the best option.

• If you have a large infestation or are dealing with protected species, a professional can provide expert advice and legal solutions.
• Professionals can install and maintain electric barriers and other advanced deterrent systems.
• They can also help with the safe removal of nests and the repair of any damage caused by birds.

FAQs

Are all birds protected by law?

Most bird species in the U.S. are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to trap, kill, or disturb their nests without a permit.

Can I use bird netting on my home?

Yes, bird netting is a safe and effective way to prevent birds from nesting or roosting on your property. Make sure to use the appropriate mesh size and installation method for your specific needs.

How do I get rid of woodpeckers without harming them?

Use bird netting, eliminate insect infestations, and provide alternative food sources to redirect woodpeckers away from your home. Cover any drilled areas to prevent further damage.

What should I do if I find a bird nest on my property?

Do not disturb an active nest. Contact local wildlife control for guidance on how to proceed legally and safely.

Are there natural ways to deter birds?

Yes, natural repellents, predator decoys, and sound devices can be effective. Combining multiple methods often yields the best results.

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