Controlling Problem Birds

Controlling Problem Birds

Birds can be a charming addition to your garden, but sometimes they can also be an awful nuisance. Both the home and business owner have to deal with problem birds such as pigeons, crows, seagulls, geese and even sparrows from time to time. For homeowners issues such as damage to plants, fruits and vegetables, droppings, and noise problems can all be factors when deciding on a bird control solution. Business owners need to deal with the problems of droppings and plant damage, but health issues and annoyance of customers also weigh in when deciding on a solution to a bird problem.

Depending on your particular problem there are a number of bird control solutions that you can consider. Some of these bird control products such as decoys are passive and rely on the target bird's natural fear of a predator such as an owl or bird of prey. Other products work as barriers to deter the bird from a particular area by putting up spikes, or netting to discourage the birds from roosting in certain areas or to keep them from plants or fruit. Other bird control techniques utilize an active approach using motion detecting lights, sound based systems and deterrent chemical applications that keep birds out of certain areas.

Bird Control Products

The type of bird control product you select is largely based on the type of bird you are trying to repel. Most bird control products will be targeted at a specific species or type of bird and there is a wide variation in techniques based on bird type. Here is a rundown on the type of birds you might want to repel and what product works best for that species.

Geese: A few geese are generally not a problem, but when a large number of geese collect in an area they can quickly destroy plants and make a huge mess with their droppings. One effective bird control product for geese is a noise maker that makes a loud sound at a set interval. This type of device is typically not allowed in city limits due to noise problems, but they can be effective if you live in the county. Chemical sprays are also available that smell badly to the geese and do not cause any damage to plants. These products are also environmentally friendly

Pigeons: The main problem with pigeons is their droppings. A small number of birds can leave a huge mess in a short time. There is a wide variety of products available for the control of pigeons. Spikes can be an effective way to deter pigeons from roosting in a certain area. These are fairly inexpensive and can be an effective way to keep the birds from roosting on ledges, fences, and other overhangs where you don't want to deal with droppings. Sonic bird repelling devices that sound like a bird in distress can also be used to disperse birds. You can also use bird of prey decoys in some cases to keep birds from congregating. There are also a number of sprays and gels that make surfaces slippery to the birds without causing them harm. It makes it difficult for the birds to hold on to the roost and they usually find a better place to hang out.

Seagulls: Seagulls can be quite a problem and you don't have to live near the ocean to be bothered by these nuisance birds. They are very large and can get intro trash and make a big mess. Spikes are effective to keep these birds from roosting on ledges and overhangs as they have big feet that can't easily span the spikes. Slippery covers are also available for poles and posts that make it difficult for the birds to stand. Sonic and motion deterrents are also effective for this birds.

Other Birds: In general many of the products listed above will work for birds such as sparrows, crows, and ducks. Check with the manufacturer of the bird control product to see what product is most appropriate for your particular bird control problem.