Bird Control Methods

Birds are destructive to property by leaving messes and eating what they should not consume. Birds constantly try to eat food intended for people from small backyard gardens to large-scale agricultural enterprises. Birds create huge messes through their mere existence and their choices of places to land and roost.

Protecting ponds and other areas with water

Birds, such as egrets and herons, frequently prey on fish in backyard garden ponds. A water sprinkling system triggered by a motion detector irritates such water birds and discourages them from hunting in the pond. The water system also helps keep pond water levels up, which is a side benefit.

Protecting against birds with visual deterrents

Scarecrows, flash tape and bird predator decoys such as owls, hawks, coyotes and cats deter birds. Some movement in the deterrent object should improve its efficacy.

Protecting against birds with audible deterrents

Electronic bird repellers that broadcast sound protect orchards, vineyards, businesses and harbors by broadcasting predator sounds specific to those environments. Propane scare cannons drive away pest birds, such as wild turkeys and crows, with a single pressure sonic blast. Birds and other wildlife become frightened and disoriented by the sonic blast that repeats continuously at intervals. Propane scare cannons protect up to five acres depending on the volume setting of the sonic blast.

Protecting against birds with physical barriers

Bird netting wrapped around trees keeps birds away from fruit. Bird netting may is useful for protecting garden areas or other suitable areas. You can reduce the mess of bird droppings on property by eliminating the places where birds are likely to perch. Bird control spikes and gutter spikes prevent pigeons and other large birds from roosting or landing on buildings and eaves.

Birds are often very destructive to property

by Becky Cockrum, Home & Garden writer