METHODS TO KEEP BIRDS OFF YOUR PORCH
Birds flying from tree to tree in your yard and your neighbors are fine but flying on your porch or into your home is not ok. Sometimes, birds become attracted to your porch and decide it is a good place to build a nest. Nests in the rafters and leaving droppings on the ground are just gross. Fortunately, steps have been developed allowing you to address the issue with birds on your porch.
Bird Prevention
To prevent or decrease the chances birds find your porch welcoming, move bird feeders, birdhouses, or birdbaths, away from your porch. Adding space between you and the birds is effective. Don’t leave food out for birds because they will be attracted and increase the welcoming atmosphere of your porch. These simple prevention steps will take away one of the main reasons birds hang around your porch.
Steps Once Nests are Found
Once bird nests are found on your porch, they need to be addressed. The reality is if birds nest on your porch, it’s going to be more difficult to persuade them to leave. Make it a priority to block off locations birds can nest with bird netting or bird spikes. Additionally, bird netting can be used to block off entrances. Keep twigs and leaves off your porch they are bird nesting materials.
Bird netting is an optimal nest preventative measure. Unfortunately, if birds have already built a nest, depending on the species of bird, it may be illegal to move the nest yourself or make any changes. It’s important to determine the species and investigate if a permit is required or call an expert, such as Southwest Avian Solutions. The Migratory Bird Treaty of 1918 protects almost all birds except for pigeons, starlings, and sparrows.
If birds are congregating, consider bird spikes. Bird spikes can be used on ledges to prevent birds from landing. By installing bird spikes, the birds will no longer have a place to land or perch, thus they will have to find somewhere else to congregate.
Visual Bird Deterrence
Visual or sound deterrence is an option for bird prevention. Visual deterrents involve objects like scarecrows and plastic owls. Visual deterrents work for a time but require regular placement changes or the birds will get used to the devices and ignore them.
Sound deterrents, which are effective, involve sending out high-frequency pitches that humans don’t hear but birds try to avoid. Ultrasonic devices are available from bird control companies as well as online.
Smaller bird problems are easier. Devices like wind chimes can scare birds away from your porch and are often more visually appealing.
If your bird problem lasts longer than six months, we recommend calling Southwest Avian Solutions for assistance.
Southwest Avian Solutions offer free bird control consultations. We will talk with you and come up with a custom plan that fits your specific situation. If you’re interested in setting up a free consultation, complete our online form or call (602)942-6550 to set up an appointment.