Are you tired of constantly cleaning bird droppings off your favorite outdoor benches? You love watching birds, but not the mess they leave behind. The good news is, you can reclaim your clean seating area with several effective and humane strategies. Birds perch for rest, observation, and food. By making your benches less attractive for these activities, you can encourage them to land elsewhere.
Start with simple physical barriers. Consider installing specially designed, humane bird spikes. These are not sharp; they create an uneven surface that makes perching uncomfortable. For a more subtle look, use bird gel or repellent tape. The gel creates a sticky surface birds dislike, while the reflective tape disorients them with light and movement.
Visual and auditory scare tactics can work wonders. Place realistic predator decoys, like owls or hawks, and move them regularly so birds don't get used to them. Hanging old CDs, reflective pinwheels, or wind chimes creates unexpected movement and noise that spooks birds. Ultrasonic repellents emit high-frequency sounds unpleasant to birds but inaudible to most humans.
Make the environment less inviting. Ensure no food scraps, crumbs, or open trash cans are nearby. Trim back overhanging branches to remove convenient staging areas. You can also try scent deterrents; birds dislike the smell of certain essential oils like peppermint, citrus, or eucalyptus. Soak cotton balls and place them in strategic spots (replacing them weekly).
For a permanent solution, modify the bench itself. Install a slight, slanted cover or use slippery materials on the armrests and back. A gently angled surface is much harder for birds to grip.
Remember, persistence and combination are key. Birds are adaptable, so using two or three methods together yields the best results. Always opt for humane solutions that discourage perching without harming our feathered friends. With a little effort, you can enjoy a clean, mess-free bench and still appreciate birds—from a more comfortable distance.