Seal Access Points to Keep Birds Out
One of the most important steps for successfully removing birds from an area is to identify and seal all of the access points they are using to enter and nest. Birds like pigeons, swallows and starlings often target gaps, holes, crevices, openings and ledges on buildings. By plugging these access points, you can exclude birds from the area and prevent them from returning.
To locate bird access points:
- Inspect the outside of buildings. Look for gaps behind gutters, around vent stacks, under ridge caps, through soffits, between roof panels and around windows.
- Check for openings into attics, including loose or missing insulation and holes around pipes or wiring.
- Look for spaces between wall panels, under shutters and behind signs or awnings that birds could access.
- Search inside buildings for crevices, holes and ledges pigeons could squeeze into. They are adept at finding tiny gaps.
Once access points are identified, seal them using:
- Weather stripping – For wider gaps behind gutters, vents and ledges
- Caulk – Use caulk to seal nail holes, cracks and seams less than 1/2-inch wide.
- Foam sealant – Spray or rope foam fills gaps and conforms to odd shapes.
- Wire mesh – Install welded wire or metal screen over gaps larger than 1 inch to allow airflow while excluding birds.
- Vent, pipe and duct covers – Some vents and exhausts come with accessories to exclude pests while allowing function.
Regularly inspecting buildings for gaps birds could potentially access and sealing points when found is the most lasting solution for removing birds and preventing reentry. Combine exclusion with removing nests, deterring perching and discontinuing food and water sources to make areas unattractive to birds long term.
With patience and persistence, thorough exclusion methods can help you regain control of spaces currently occupied by unwanted bird visitors.