Noisemakers and audio alarms is an effective non-lethal method for removing unwanted birds that have taken up residence on roofs, ledges or other structures.
How They Work
Noisemaking devices and sonic alarms use:
- Loud, intermittent noises.
- Variable frequencies and volumes.
- Random or intermittent timing.
The goal is to mimic natural threats and disturb roosting or nesting birds enough that they:
- Become frightened and leave.
- Decide not to return or build nests.
Noisemakers introduce an environmental stressor that makes an area unfavorable to birds.
Types of Devices
Popular products include:
- Motion-activated alarms with intermittent sirens.
- Ultra-sonic emitters that generate inaudible high-frequency sound.
- Propane cannons that fire loud explosive blanks.
- Manual noisemakers like air horns and whistles.
However, ultra-sonics are considered ineffective against most species.
Effectiveness and Considerations
• Noisemakers work best for:
- Intermittent problems.
- Small to medium-sized flocks.
- Combining with other removal methods.
- Consistency is key; devices must operate frequently and unpredictably.
- Noisemakers are temporary; birds can acclimate over time.
- Devices require frequent battery or propane changes.
- Noise may bother neighbors; limit operating hours.
Indeed, for small, occasional flocks, noisemakers provide a non-invasive solution. But to remove large volumes of acclimated birds, professional removal is often needed.
Additional Non-Lethal Methods
- Netting and wires – Installing netting or tension wires over problem areas can physically prevent birds from landing or nesting. Spikes can also be added to ledges.
- Bright lights – Constant bright lighting, especially LED and strobe lights, can discourage birds at night when they often roost.
- Chemical repellents – Applying gels, foams and liquid sprays containing chemicals like methyl anthranilate can make areas taste or smell unappealing to birds.
- Habitat modification – Removing nesting spots, food sources and water can reduce an area’s attractiveness to birds. Overhanging tree branches can be trimmed.
- Live traps – Humane traps can temporarily capture birds, after which they must be relocated or humanely euthanized. Trapping is regulated and can be complex.
- Exclusion – Permanently sealing all openings and installing one-way doors allows birds to leave an area but not return. The most effective long-term solution.
- Removal of nests – Removing active or abandoned nests, along with cleaning droppings and debris, eliminates nesting sites and food sources.
- Egg oiling/removal – Coating eggs in oil or removing them interrupts the breeding cycle and reduces populations over time. Requires regular monitoring.
- Professional removal – When other methods fail, hiring experts equipped to safely remove large volumes of birds using live traps, netting and exclusion may be necessary.
In conclusion, while noisemakers and alarms can offer an easy first step for bird removal, they are temporary deterrents that require consistent use to remain effective. Thus, combining with other methods like barriers, trapping and exclusion increases success for more serious bird problems. But for occasional small flocks, noisemaker devices provide a humane, hassle-free solution.