Birds are animals belonging to the Aves class, widespread in all regions of the Globe. Most bird species live in the wild, but some are also found in populated areas. Out of these, depending on the geographical area, the most common are: pigeons (Columbidae), sparrows (Passeridae), crows (Corvidae), starlings (Sturnidae), seagulls (Laridae), etc.

Although they are harmless animals, due to their behavior, they sometimes can cause discomfort, damage or they can transmit certain diseases. They often make their nests in high places, inside people’s homes or around households, where they are protected from weather and predators and also have easy access to food and water. They prefer spaces underneath eaves, inside ventilation holes, under solar panels, terraces, and water gutters.

Signs of the presence of birds

– Detected nests within specific places;
– Constant specific noises, chirping sounds;
– Bird droppings;
– Straw, dried leaves, feathers, and other materials with which they build their nests;
– Often, they can block gutters and drainage systems.

Methods to control birds

To prevent the activity of birds in a certain space, it is recommended to take specific measures following the law.

Visual repellents

Birds are always very aware of their surroundings, both to hunt and to hide from predators. As such, to discourage them from entering yards, devices can be installed that imitate the appearance of their natural predators. Because they fail to distinguish between repellents and predators, this method can keep birds away for a while. For a more efficient control, it is indicated to incorporate the method with other treatments and/or to replace the device every few days.

Recommended visual repellents for birds:

Visual repellents are devices designed to mimic the appearance of bird predators or to reflect sunlight. They work by intimidating them and keeping them away from the protected area. Most work without electricity.

Bird lasers

Another method is to use laser devices to distract them. The laser emits a beam of light, which the birds perceive as dangerous, thus leaving the area. They can be installed in industrial areas, airports, agricultural fields, orchards, ports, etc. The laser protects against these pests both during the night and during the day and is equipped with a red dot to determine the range of action.

Recommended laser repellents for birds:

The bird laser is a device powered by batteries or a power source, designed to discourage the activity of birds in a certain area. The light emitted by it visually disturbs the birds and removes them.

Sound devices for birds

To keep birds away from a certain area, sound deterrents can also be used. They work by broadcasting sounds specific to endangered or predatory birds that threaten or disorient unwanted birds in the target area. Because they emit sounds similar to natural bird sounds, it is necessary to identify unwanted species, so as not to attract even more birds that respond to the call of their species. Depending on the protected area, the volume and operating range of the device will be adjusted so as not to cause discomfort in the vicinity.

Recommended sound devices for birds:

Sound devices broadcast bird-like sounds, and work by intimidation or disorientation. They are electrically operated and can be powered by power sources or batteries.

Bird Cannons

They are equipment that emits loud (explosive) noises, used for the safe removal of birds from crops, fish farms, aerodromes, landfills, and other open spaces. Usually, the cannon is powered by a gas cylinder and operates using a piezoelectric motor, independent of any energy source. Depending on the type of device, the range and frequency of detonations can be programmed or preset.

Recommended bird cannons:

Cannons are devices that work by intimidating and removing birds from a certain area. Because the sounds they produce are louder, they are intended for open spaces. They run on a gas engine.

For devices that do not allow the control of the trigger intervals, automatic timers can be used.

Ultrasound devices

They have the same operating principle as sound devices, but they emit high-frequency sound waves which disorient and cause birds to leave the area.

Gel repellents

Gel repellents have tactile effects, discouraging birds from settling onto the surfaces where they are applied. They can be used on any surface where birds can land and are ideal for statues, monuments, or other decorative elements. Before applying the repellent gel, the targeted area must be cleaned. For more efficient control of birds, it is recommended to use the gel together with visual or sonic repellents.

Recommended Gel repellents for birds:

Bird repellent gels are a transparent solution that tactilely disturbs birds. It is applied on surfaces that are to be protected with the help of a special gun.

For a longer action of the repellent gel, after its application, special solutions can be sprayed that has a fixing and protection role.

Bird spikes

They are strips made of plastic or metal that have one or more rows of spikes. They can be installed onto almost any surface on which birds can sit, to prevent them from landing. The strips can be fixed using screws, adhesive, or silicone, depending on the support material.

Recommended bird spikes:

Spikes are repellents with tactile action against birds, which prevents them from settling onto certain surfaces.

Other tactile repellents:

On large or flat surfaces, devices with long rods or stainless steel wires can be placed. Their movement (driven by the wind) causes birds to avoid the protected area, considering it to be unsafe to land, and will also disturb them visually.

The devices are mounted with the help of special support, an adapter with a magnetic base, or with a sandbag.

Electric shock strips for birds

They are electrically charged rails used to discourage birds from landing on the protected surface. Upon contact with the birds, the bands emit a low electric shock, which removes them from the area without damaging them. Over time, birds develop a knowledge that the area is inaccessible and will avoid it. The rails are mounted with screws or silicone and are made of a UV and weather-resistant material. Thanks to their discreet design, they are suitable for the protection of historic buildings that have cultural value.

Recommended electric strips for birds:

Electric strips are tactile devices that emit a slight electric shock when birds come in contact with them. The rails can be powered by solar energy or electricity.

Bird nets

They can be made of polyethylene, textile fiber, or wire and are used to block windows and openings or to prevent birds from settling their nests in certain places (for example solar panels). The total size of the net, as well as the holes, differs, so it is important to choose the product according to the target bird species.

Recommended bird nets:

The net is used to block the access of birds into the premises and is made from materials resistant to different atmospheric conditions. Handle with care to avoid the risk of damage.

Bird traps

Bird traps come in many forms and are used with food bait (seeds, bread, etc.), or can be equipped with a sound device. As such, birds are attracted by the bait or the sound (which may be specific to the species of insects they feed on) and when they land on the trigger, the roof of the trap will close. When a bird is caught, it will remain in the lower, ventilated part of the trap until it is safely released. It is recommended to check the box daily, as well as to place a food and water source inside.

Such traps are placed in the areas and spaces where bird activity was observed, at a high point. It is ideal that the trap is installed at night or when birds are not active, so as not to associate the device with humans.

Recommended bird traps:

Traps are devices used for the safe capture and release of birds. They can be placed both indoors and outdoors and must be checked constantly.

Combating the activity of birds consists, in general, in the use of devices that discourage them from settling on certain surfaces or installing their nest near the house. As some bird species may be protected, it is important to identify the species you are facing and apply appropriate legal measures to control their activity.