Nonlethal Bird Removal

Identifying the Problem

• Depending upon the type of bird causing the problem, there are different methods of getting rid of them. In all cases, it is important to remove the food source. If they are eating insects in your rafters, hire an exterminator to kill the bugs. If the birds are after your vegetables in your garden, be sure you are gathering the produce as soon as possible. Birds of prey, such as owls or hawks, will be looking for rodents and other small animals to eat. If you eradicate these creatures from your property, the birds of prey will not hunt there.
  
  

Deterents

• There are many bird deterrents that can be made or purchased. Your local farm supply store will have dummy birds. Putting up a fake swan will deter geese, while an owl will deter smaller birds. If you are experiencing problems in the garden, you can install a scarecrow or wind chimes to chase the birds away. Nurseries and farm supply stores also sell repellent strips, whih have pointy, needle-like spikes that stick upward to discourage birds from roosting there. You install these around the edge of your roof or on the tops of fences. Make your own by attaching tin foil to wire and hanging them around your roof. Loud noises tend to startle birds away, so if you live in the country you can shoot of a shotgun to scare them away.
  
  

Bird Traps

• If deterrents do not work, you can try trapping the birds. Farm supply stores sell humane bird traps. Set the traps up and use appropriate bait inside. If you are trying to catch a bird of prey, you will have to use a small mouse or other rodent. After you catch the bird, make sure you drive at least 10 miles from your property before releasing it, to discourage the bird from returning. It is important before trapping any bird that you find out what the laws are in your area regarding the particular species.
  
  

Reasons for Nonlethal Methods

• Many people opt to humanely remove birds because they do not want to use poisons around their pets and families. Others choose to use humane methods because they do not like the idea of killing another living thing. It is also important to know that there are legal ramifications to killing certain types of birds. According to US Animal Control, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 protects almost every species of bird in the United States. Because of this act, you must have a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Services before attempting to remove any birds.