URBAN BENCHES

If you're tired of finding bird droppings on your favorite park bench, you're not alone. Preventing birds from perching requires a mix of clever design and consistent maintenance. Start by installing physical barriers. Stainless steel bird spikes are a classic, humane choice—they don't harm birds but make landing uncomfortable. For a subtler look, consider angled or curved bench backs; birds find sloped surfaces difficult to grip. Regular cleaning is crucial. Birds are attracted to food crumbs and debris. A strict cleaning schedule removes these incentives. You can also employ sensory deterrents. Reflective tapes or predator decoys, like owl statues, can scare birds away, though their effectiveness may diminish over time as birds adapt. For a high-tech solution, ultrasonic repellents emit frequencies unpleasant to birds but inaudible to humans. Remember, the goal is deterrence, not harm. Avoid sticky gels or poisons, as they can injure wildlife and create messy, inhumane situations. The most successful approach is often layered: combine a physical design element with good hygiene and occasional visual scares. This creates an environment that's simply too unstable and unappealing for birds to settle on, keeping your urban benches clean and welcoming for people.