Effectively removing birds requires a multifaceted solution. Altering their access to food and water is key to bird removal as these are basic needs for any species. Addressing food and water sources will subsequently reduce the population.
Removing Food Sources
Birds rely on various foods to survive including seeds, berries, fruits, and insects. Thus, to deter birds, locate and remove any accessible food sources. First, inspect for open garbage bins, ripe fruits on trees, exposed pet food, and birdfeeders. Additionally, swept up birdseed on pavements and decks can attract ground feeding birds like pigeons.
Eliminate these locations where birds forage for food. Clean up any spilled birdseed and properly store garbage in sealed outdoor bins. Remove ripe fruits from trees if possible. If using birdfeeders, remove them until the bird problem is solved to avoid further attraction. Moreover, minimize berries and seed producing plants that birds favor.
Eliminating Water Access
Beyond food, birds need regular access to water to thrive. Moreover, water features are appealing gathering places for birds. Hence, removing excess water sources is a necessary bird control measure.
To start, inspect property for birdbaths, dripping faucets, and water features that provide standing water for birds to drink and bathe. Once located, drain or cover birdbaths and properly fix leaky faucets promptly. Furthermore, pumping out ornamental ponds or covering them with netting can significantly decrease bird water access.
However, even natural water sources may need intervention. Eliminate puddles and other temporary water sources that can persist after rain. Similarly, clean and maintain rain gutters regularly to reduce backed up water that attracts birds. Taking all steps to remove accessible water ensures birds will leave due to lack of resources.
Removing Roosting Sites
Aside from food and water, birds depend on places to rest and nest. Thus, bird removal also entails eliminating roosting places that allow birds to gather. Common bird roosting sites include building ledges, bushes, and trees.
First, properly trim back trees and bushes so they are not dense enough to provide cover. Next, cover building ledges, decks, pergolas and other horizontal surfaces where birds like to gather. Netting is an effective covering for roosting perches. Similarly, install metal spikes on ledges to deter birds from sitting.
Utilizing a combination of these bird removal strategies will yield best results. While removing food and water sources are initial priorities, also addressing bird gathering places will discourage their presence long term. Ultimately, a permanent solution will require removing appealing resources as well as altering locations birds find shelter. With persistence and consistent efforts, implementing these techniques will clear birds from the property.