Birds are some of nature’s most wondrous creatures. From hummingbirds to eagles, they come in an almost endless variety of sizes, colors, songs and aerobatics. What other wild animal has worldwide clubs dedicated to simply watching and identifying them? What other wild animal do we welcome into our yards with seeds, feeders and miniature manufactured homes?
Yes, birds are extraordinary, but they can also be problematic. Naturally, they find it easier to feed on our garbage, gardens, orchards and crops instead of foraging in the wild. They also find it all too convenient to nest and roost in manmade structures and spaces, where their droppings can create filth and damage for property and equipment. Birds can also act as carriers for viruses and diseases that are hazardous to people, pets and livestock.
To successfully deter birds, it helps to understand why they behave the way they do. To survive and thrive, birds must find habitat that fulfills three basic needs:
If you have bird problems, chances are you have an area that offers all three of these characteristics—everything birds need to live happily. And unfortunately, once they move in, they’re usually there to stay. The good news is that birds are creatures of habit. If you can find a way to displace them without harming them, they’ll happily move on to a new place that fulfills their needs. And they won’t likely return.
“We have been using Fly Away BMS for several years while in development. We use it over our deck at our winery and in trees to keep the deck bird free and clean. We also use in it our vineyards which has been big help in not having to net our vineyards.”
- Brandon, Winery Owner, Missouri