It's a common nuisance: you head out to enjoy your garden or patio, only to find your outdoor benches decorated with unwelcome bird droppings. Not only is this unsightly and unhygienic, but the acidic waste can also damage the finish of your furniture. The good news is there are several effective and humane strategies to discourage our feathered friends from using your benches as a perch. The key is to make the area physically uncomfortable or visually unsettling for them.
First, consider installing physical barriers. Specially designed bird spikes are a highly effective solution. These are not sharp or harmful; they are blunt, plastic or stainless-steel prongs that create an uneven surface birds find impossible to land on. They can be discreetly attached along the back and arms of your bench. For a softer look, try bird gel or a similar non-toxic, sticky substance applied in strips. Birds dislike the tacky feeling on their feet.
Visual and auditory deterrents can also work wonders. Hang reflective objects like old CDs, special reflective tape, or wind chimes near the benches. The moving light and unexpected sounds startle birds. Decoy predators, such as realistic plastic owls or hawks, can be effective, but remember to move them regularly so birds don't realize they're fake.
Natural repellents leverage scents birds dislike. Sprinkling spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, or cinnamon on the bench (reapplied after rain) can be a simple deterrent. Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, or citrus, diluted and sprayed on the surfaces, can also help. Always test a small area first to ensure it doesn't stain your bench.
Finally, don't make your benches an attractive rest stop. Ensure there are no food crumbs, spilled drinks, or accessible water sources nearby. Regularly cleaning off any existing droppings removes scent markers that attract more birds. By combining one or more of these methods—such as spikes for a permanent solution with visual decoys for extra security—you can reclaim your clean and comfortable outdoor seating without harming the local wildlife.