Bird's nesting - Ask Extension
Hello, Bird's have taken to nesting behind the fake shutters that I have at either side of my downstairs front windows and on either side of t...
Knowledgebase
Bird's nesting #869974
Asked May 24, 2024, 4:19 PM EDT
Hello,
Bird's have taken to nesting behind the fake shutters that I have at either side of my downstairs front windows and on either side of the window over my garage. I have had these areas cleaned out and my handyman pushed some pipe insulation into the space hopefully to make it too crowded to attract the birds. Unfortunately the insulation seems to have disintegrated over time and the birds are back. Do you have any suggestions. I plan to have these areas cleaned out again but what to do?
Thank you!!
Sussex County Delaware
Expert Response
The plastic foam products will disintegrate over time and then the birds will return. Hopefully your shutters are not made of wood, if they are don't consider sealing them with a caulk as any water that gets behind them will rot them out.
When you have them cleaned out this time, attach a piece of mesh to the shutter and bend it back to the house creating a barrier that will prevent the birds from getting in but allow air flow. This can be placed just back from the edge so it is not seen.
Make sure to use a galvanized mesh that won't rust. If your space won't allow the bent mesh method, try using copper wool. This is like steel wool but won't rust and 'bleed' down your wall. It is also very expensive.
You can also go with the plastic insulation method and plan on replacing every three years as needed.
You could also try offering alternative housing in the form of bird houses with very small entry holes in other locations. Remove any bird feeders from your property. There should be sufficient seeds and insects to feed the birds, if not they will relocate.
When you have them cleaned out this time, attach a piece of mesh to the shutter and bend it back to the house creating a barrier that will prevent the birds from getting in but allow air flow. This can be placed just back from the edge so it is not seen.
Make sure to use a galvanized mesh that won't rust. If your space won't allow the bent mesh method, try using copper wool. This is like steel wool but won't rust and 'bleed' down your wall. It is also very expensive.
You can also go with the plastic insulation method and plan on replacing every three years as needed.
You could also try offering alternative housing in the form of bird houses with very small entry holes in other locations. Remove any bird feeders from your property. There should be sufficient seeds and insects to feed the birds, if not they will relocate.
Judy,
Thank you!
Chris Carlin
On 5/29/2024 9:25 AM, Ask Extension wrote:
