Noise as a Bird Repellent
Unwanted birds such English starlings, house sparrows, grackles and pigeons, become nuisances when the birds eat seeds from a carefully planted garden or when they roost or nest in rafters and on ledges. Noisemakers may be effective deterrents, especially when used in conjunction with other tactics.
Noisemakers take many forms, from sophisticated exploders, fireworks and taped distress calls to simple noise-making techniques, such as clapping hands, loud whistles or banging pots and pans. The effectiveness of noisemakers often varies depending on the type of bird.
Nuisance birds are smart and soon become used to noisemakers. Changing the type of noise frequently may help. Frightening birds away may take several nights, especially if the birds are settled into a roosting site. Birds are usually easier to remove from a new roost site.
Noisemakers may work best when used in conjunction with other techniques. For example, use visual deterrents, such as owl decoys, rubber snakes, shiny streamers or balloons with big eyes or scary faces. Like noise repellents, birds soon become accustomed to the objects and are no longer afraid. Use a variety of items and change them often.
M.H. Dyer began her writing career as a staff writer at a community newspaper and is now a full-time commercial writer. She writes about a variety of topics, with a focus on sustainable, pesticide- and herbicide-free gardening. She is an Oregon State University Master Gardener and Master Naturalist and holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction writing.