Do you have a problem with pesky birds making a mess on your porch?
It’s incredibly frustrating when they leave droppings everywhere, and it only gets worse when they start nesting.
In this blog post, we will discuss 10 proven ways to keep birds off the porch.
We will also cover how to get rid of any bird nests that may already be there.
Keep reading for helpful tips on bird proofing.
The Short Answer…
There are 10 proven ways to keep birds off the porch:
Visual: shiny things
Sound: wind chimes, ultrasound repellents
Smell: citrus repellent
Food: remove bird feeders, remove bird baths or fountains
Physical: bird spikes, sticky surface
Predators: owl decoys, cats
Why Do You Keep Birds Off The Porch?
Many people find birds aesthetically pleasing, but they can often be more trouble than they’re worth.
Not only do they leave droppings everywhere, but they are also tracked in dirt and debris.
In extreme cases, birds might even build nests on porches or patios, which could create safety hazards by blocking doorways.
Unfortunately, birds may carry diseases or parasites that can sicken humans and their pets.
However, homeowners can take a few simple steps to keep birds off the porch.
With these preventative measures in place, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space without having to worry about the mess that birds can leave behind.
How To Keep Birds Away From The Porch? 10 Proven Ways!
There are a few different ways that you can keep birds away from your porch.
1. Shiny Things
One way to keep birds away from your porch is to use shiny objects. Birds are attracted to shiny things, so hanging CDs or mirrors on your porch can help to deter them.
You can also use twisting spiral rods or pinwheels. The spinning blades will reflect the light and help to keep the birds at bay.
2. Wind Chimes
Another method to keep birds away from your porch is by using wind chimes.
The dinging noise will make birds believe that predators are in the vicinity, and as a result, they will stay clear of your porch.
You can find many commercial products marketed for this purpose, or you could create your own bird deterrent by hanging tin cans from your porch.
3. Owl Decoys
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, owl decoys serve a practical purpose by scaring birds away from your porch.
You can find these decoys at most home improvement stores.
4. Remove Bird Baths Or Fountains
If you want to keep birds away from your porch, it is best to remove any water features such as bird baths or fountains.
Although they may be pretty, these types of features are more likely to attract birds instead.
5. Remove Bird Feeders
If you have a bird feeder in your backyard, get rid of it.
You might like observing the birds feast, but the feeder will only bring more birds to your porch.
6. Citrusy Repellent
You can also make a citrusy repellent to keep birds away from your porch by mixing equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
Then, add a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil.
Spray the repellent around your porch, Birds don’t like the citric smell so they will stay away from where you sprayed.
7. Ultrasound Repellent
If you want to keep birds away from your porch, you can use an ultrasound repellent.
These devices emit high-frequency sounds that only birds can hear, which will cause them to stay away from the area.
8. Bird Spikes
If you don’t want birds on your porch, one solution is to install bird spikes.
You can find these at many hardware stores, and the installation process is simple.
Just put the spikes around the edge of your porch, and the birds will stay away.
9. Sticky Surface
A sticky surface will keep birds away from your porch by making it too difficult for them to land. There are a variety of commercial bird gel repellents available, or you can make your own by mixing one part molasses with two parts water and applying the mixture to a sheet of cardboard. Place the sheet around your porch for best results.
10. Let The Cats Take Over
Cats are natural predators which have instincts to drive birds away. They may do this by chasing, vocalizing, or even physically attacking the intruders.
Not only will this reduce the amount of time you spend keeping the birds away, but it will also prevent the messes they leave behind.
How to Get Rid of Birds’ Nests on the Porch?
Birds nesting in your home can cause many problems, including legal complications and housing parasites.
You might be inclined to get rid of the nest by yourself, however, that’s usually not as straightforward as anticipated.
In some cases, state law protects certain kinds of bird nests.
Furthermore, these pests commonly have fleas, mites, or lice that the birds may carry.
To avoid legal penalties and/or contracting parasites, it’s best to contact a professional for help with removal. They will be knowledgeable about the safest way to proceed given your unique situation.
Conclusion
These are 10 proven ways that you can keep birds off your porch.
In summary, you can use wind chimes, owl decoys, remove bird baths or fountains, remove bird feeders, make a citrusy repellent, use an ultrasound repellent, install bird spikes, create a sticky surface, or let the cats take over.
While some of these methods may be more effective than others, they will all help to keep the birds away from your porch.
If you have a problem with nuisance birds building nests on your porch or other home structures, it is best to contact a local wildlife technician for assistance.
They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you get rid of the nests without breaking any laws or exposing yourself to potential parasites.
