How To Get Rid Of Birds In The Barn

How to Get Rid of Birds in Your Barn: A Humane and Effective Guide

Dealing with birds in your barn can be frustrating. They can damage property, contaminate feed, and even spread disease. This guide provides humane and effective solutions to deter birds from your barn, ensuring both your property and the birds' well-being.

Understanding the Problem: Why are Birds in My Barn?

Before implementing any solution, it's crucial to understand why birds are attracted to your barn. Common reasons include:

• Shelter: Barns offer protection from the elements, particularly during harsh weather.
• Nesting Sites: The structure of a barn often provides ideal nesting locations, offering security and concealment.
• Food Sources: Spilled grain, insects, or other food sources within or around the barn can attract birds.

Identifying the primary attractant will help you tailor your solution for maximum effectiveness.

Humane and Effective Bird Deterrents

The key to successfully removing birds from your barn lies in a multi-pronged approach focusing on prevention and deterrents, prioritizing humane methods above all else.

1. Eliminate Food Sources:

• Cleanliness is key: Regularly sweep and clean the barn floor, removing any spilled grain or feed. Store feed in sealed containers.
• Pest Control: Address insect infestations, as insects often attract birds.
• Secure Garbage: Keep garbage cans sealed and away from the barn to avoid attracting birds seeking food scraps.

2. Deny Shelter and Nesting Sites:

• Seal Entry Points: Identify and seal any gaps or holes in the barn's structure where birds might be entering. Use caulk, mesh, or other appropriate materials.
• Remove Nesting Materials: If you find nests, carefully remove them during the off-season (avoiding nesting season whenever possible).
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Trees or bushes near the barn can provide convenient access points. Trimming these back can make the barn less accessible.

3. Visual and Auditory Deterrents:

• Shiny Objects: Hanging reflective materials like Mylar tape, CDs, or aluminum foil can startle birds and deter them from landing. The movement and glare are often effective.
• Predatory Decoys: Placing decoys of predatory birds (owls, hawks) can create a visual deterrent. However, this is not always effective long-term, as birds quickly learn to recognize decoys.
• Ultrasonic Devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to birds but inaudible to humans. Their effectiveness varies, and some birds may adapt.

4. Physical Barriers:

• Bird Netting: Netting can effectively prevent birds from entering specific areas of the barn, such as ventilation openings or windows. Ensure the netting is securely fastened.
• Spikes: Bird spikes are placed along ledges or other areas where birds frequently perch, preventing them from landing. These are humane as they don't harm the birds, only deter them.

Important Considerations:

• Timing is crucial: Implementing these strategies is most effective when birds aren't actively nesting.
• Consistency is key: The success of bird deterrents relies on consistent application.
• Humane approach: Always prioritize humane methods. Avoid trapping or harming birds unnecessarily. If you're struggling with a severe infestation, consult with a wildlife professional.

By combining several of these methods, you can create a multi-layered approach to effectively and humanely deter birds from your barn, protecting your property while ensuring the birds' welfare. Remember, patience and persistence are key to long-term success.