When you imagine pests in and around your home, you probably have a long list of creepy, crawly, slimy, or toothy creatures that come to mind. From spiders and scorpions to rats and raccoons, there are plenty of pests that can ruin your day. But there are some pests that can cause serious health problems and property damage that you might not realize are capable of doing so. Birds will make nests in and around your home and destroy it in the process. Birds will drop their waste and spread disease (and leave your home smelling terrible as well). And birds will leave feathers and other debris that can clutter and dirty your home in no time. So how can you prevent birds from taking over your home? Here are a few tips for avoiding a feathered infestation.
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Discourage Nests
Birds are opportunistic and will look for any suitable place to create a nest. More often than not, they will assume your home is the best place for their home. Where will birds try to build a nest? Anywhere that is exposed, open, or damaged. Broken vents, pipes, shutters, rafters, siding, and any areas of your home that need a little TLC are prime real estate for birds. The best way to prevent this problem is to repair any damage and seal any holes with wire mesh or Spackle.
Feeder Problems
Few things can be as relaxing and enjoyable as watching a group of birds gather around your decorative feeder. While feeding a few birds is usually okay, when invasive species begin moving in, you will have a problem. The first tip to for avoiding nuisance birds is to buy a feeder that is targeted to specific species (species you don’t mind having around). The second tip is to remove the feeder if unwanted birds show up. When the problem birds are gone, you should be able to return the feeder to its original location.
Close the Buffet
Most birds will scavenge and forage for food. More often than not, that means they will look to your garbage cans and any exposed trash for a quick meal. If you want to avoid an infestation of pigeons, magpies, swallows, or any number of other annoying birds, make sure you keep your home clean. Don’t leave food or garbage out, and keep any bins well sealed.
Scare Tactics
Birds of all species are naturally afraid of predators, and you can use their inborn fear to your advantage. The old scarecrow in the field technique isn’t just a tradition, it’s a tactic. While a smiling scarecrow made out of suitable nesting materials (straw, husks, and other great supplies) isn’t going to fool anyone, predator decoys will. From foxes to owls, artificial decoy animals come in all shapes, sizes, and species, ensuring you can find the right tools to eliminate your specific problem.
Luckily, avoiding or removing a bird problem is easier than you think with these tips which are further illustrated in the infographic below.
Author Bio:
Joe Felegi is currently a dedicated chair member of the NPMA Wildlife Committee. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management from Slippery Rock University. Joe has two years of experience from the National Park Service, as well as 25 years of experience as a franchisee owner. Previously a board member and VP of the company, he currently serves as president of Critter Control of Florida and overseer of all five franchisees. Joe is also the Regional Director of the National Wildlife Control Association (NWCOA), and a Franchisee Advisory Committee Chairman.
Thanks for the tips. Like the infographic. Makes it easier to digest the tips. Fake owls helped deter birds from our back porch.
Cool stuff. Your easy writing make it easy to understand the strategies. Hop these will work at my side as well.