Getting rid of birds from a barn can be quite a challenge, but with a systematic approach, you can effectively discourage them from taking residence or causing problems. Birds may seek shelter in barns for nesting, roosting, or protection from adverse weather. It’s important to control this issue because birds can damage property, leave droppings that create health risks, and consume feed intended for livestock. Let’s go through some practical steps to keep birds at bay in a humane and effective way.
Step 1: Identify the Birds and Understand Their Behavior
Before taking any measures, it is important to identify the species of birds you are dealing with, as some birds may be protected under wildlife conservation laws. Understanding their behavior will also help in determining the most effective methods to discourage them from your barn. For example, some birds might be looking for food, while others might be seeking a roosting or nesting site.
Step 2: Clean Up and Remove Attractants
Maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Make sure to:
- Regularly clean up any spilled grains or feed that might attract the birds.
- Seal any open containers of feed and store them in a secure location.
- Keep the barn and surrounding area free of garbage and debris.
Step 3: Make the Environment Unwelcoming
To make the barn less inviting to birds, consider these strategies:
- Play distress or predator calls specific to the species of bird you’re dealing with.
- Install visual deterrents like reflective tape, fake predators (like owls or hawks), or hanging CDs that move with the wind and reflect light.
- Use tactile deterrents such as bird spikes or gel repellents on rafters and other perching sites.
Step 4: Prevent Access to the Barn
To prevent birds from getting into the barn in the first place:
- Install appropriate netting or wire mesh over windows and other openings.
- Keep doors closed when not in use, or install automatic door closers.
- Seal any holes or cracks in walls or roofing where birds may enter.
Step 5: Use Noise and Light Disturbances
Strategically placed noise makers or motion-activated lights can help to scare birds away. However, birds can become accustomed to these, so it’s important to change the patterns or move the devices regularly:
- Use ultrasonic bird repellers, which emit sounds that are unpleasant to birds.
- Employ motion-activated sprinklers to startle birds when they enter certain areas.
- Install strobe lights or revolving lights, especially useful for nocturnal birds.
Step 6: Employ Natural Predators
If possible, introducing natural predators can be an effective long-term solution:
- Attract birds of prey like hawks or owls by installing nesting boxes.
- Allow a barn cat to roam the area, ensuring it is cared for as a farm animal.
Step 7: Consistent Monitoring and Adaptation
After implementing these methods, monitor the situation regularly:
- Keep an eye on bird activity and move or replace deterrents as needed.
- Adapt your strategies if birds start to ignore certain deterrents.
- Combine different methods for a more effective approach.
Conclusion
Removing birds from a barn involves a combination of cleanliness, deterrents, and making the environment inhospitable in a non-harmful way. Since birds can be beneficial to the ecosystem, it’s important to use humane methods to control the situation. Always check local wildlife laws before taking any action, as some bird species may be protected. Finally, persistent effort is key to maintaining a barn that is free from unwanted feathered guests.
Remember, the overall goal is to discourage the birds from returning to the barn while not harming the birds or disrupting the local ecosystem. Always consider non-lethal methods as a primary approach and consult with wildlife specialists if you are unsure about the best course of action for your particular situation.