What are some common aggressive bird species?
Some of the most aggressive and territorial bird species include:
- Blue Jays
- Mockingbirds
- Robins
- Crows
- Grackles
- Cardinals
- House Sparrows
- Seagulls
These birds will often attack humans that get too close to their nests during breeding season. They see humans as a threat and will dive bomb and peck at heads to try and scare them away.
Why do birds become aggressive?
Birds become aggressive for a few key reasons:
- To defend their territory – Birds are very territorial and will protect areas where they nest and feed.
- To protect their young – Parent birds are especially aggressive when defending their nestlings and fledglings.
- Competition over resources – Birds fight over food sources, nesting sites, roosting spots, etc.
Aggressive behavior is usually the worst during breeding season when birds are nesting and raising their chicks. Their hormones are heightened which puts them on extra high alert.
How can you deter aggressive birds from your yard?
There are several effective techniques to humanely keep bold birds away from your property:
Remove food sources
Birds are drawn to yards with ample food sources. Eliminate outdoor food that could attract birds:
- Remove bird feeders and birdbaths
- Clean up fallen fruit from trees
- Secure trash bins
- Clear away seed shells from under feeders
Reducing food and water sources will make your yard less appealing.
Install deterrent devices
There are many devices made to scare problematic birds:
- Reflective tape – Mylar flashing tape startles birds with its shimmering surface.
- Fake owls/hawks – Lifelike predator decoys frighten smaller birds.
- Spikes – Porcupine wire or spike strips on ledges and roofs deter roosting.
- Ultrasonic devices – Emit high-frequency sounds only birds can hear.
- Motion-activated sprinklers – Suddenly spray water to surprise birds and cause them to leave.
Use a combination of visual, sound, and tactile deterrents for best results. Remember to move devices every few days so birds don’t become accustomed.
Block nesting sites
Without appropriate spots to build nests, birds will look elsewhere:
- Cover chimneys, vents, and openings with wire mesh
- Trim back tree branches and shrubs near your home
- Remove old nests and materials from prior years
This eliminates nesting site options for territorial birds.
Use harmless harassment
Sometimes active hazing is needed to scare aggressive birds away:
- Squirt birds with water guns or hoses
- Bang pots and pans to create loud noises
- Wave arms and yell at approaching birds
- Allow dogs outside to chase birds away
Repeated harassment teaches birds your yard is unsafe. Eventually they learn to avoid the area altogether.
When should you call a professional?
In some cases, bird problems are too persistent and require professional help:
- Numerous birds repeatedly nesting in problematic areas
- Significant property damage from birds pecking, scratching, or chewing
- Risk of disease from excessive bird droppings
- Ongoing aggressive attacks causing harm to people
Licensed wildlife control companies have access to advanced bird deterrents, nest removal methods, and exclusion techniques. They can strategically use traps, repellents, and netting to permanently get rid of entrenched bird infestations at a property.
Summary of how to deter aggressive birds
Here are the key takeaways for keeping problematic birds away humanely and safely:
- Remove outdoor food and water sources
- Install bird deterrent devices like reflective tape, owl decoys, wire spikes, ultrasonic repellers etc.
- Block nesting sites on buildings by covering openings and pruning vegetation
- Use harmless harassment techniques like spraying with hoses or making loud sounds
- Call a professional bird control company for severe, ongoing issues
Following these tips will convince aggressive birds to take up residence elsewhere and keep them from causing harm or damage around your home.
Detailed comparison of different bird deterrent options
Here is an in-depth look at various devices and techniques to repel problematic birds:
Deterrent | Pros | Cons |
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Reflective Tape |
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Fake Predator Decoys |
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Porcupine Wire |
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Ultrasonic Repellers |
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Motion Activated Sprinklers |
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As you can see, there are pros and cons to each type of deterrent. Using a combination of different devices and randomly moving them around will produce best results.
Step-by-step instructions for properly installing bird spikes
Bird spikes are a popular and effective option for keeping birds from landing and roosting on ledges, signs, roof peaks, and other surfaces. Here is a step-by-step guide to properly installing them:
- Clean and dry surface thoroughly. Use detergent to remove grease, grime, or other debris where spikes will be attached.
- Measure the area needing spike coverage and cut spikes to appropriate lengths as needed.
- Peel off adhesive backing on spikes to expose the sticky surface.
- Press spikes firmly onto surface at intervals recommended by manufacturer, usually 2 to 4 inches apart.
- Ensure all spikes are securely adhered and evenly spaced. Push down any loose ends.
- For large areas, apply spikes in parallel rows so entire surface is covered.
- On sloped or curved surfaces, bend spikes to match the contour before adhering.
- Use spike end caps or trim extra length if spikes extend past edge of surface.
- For high-traffic areas, secure spikes with screws in addition to adhesive.
- Check spikes occasionally to ensure they remain attached and replace any missing or damaged spikes as needed.
Properly installed plastic or stainless steel spike strips can provide long-lasting bird control and deter roosting for many years. Position spikes in key problem areas to effectively keep birds away.
Examples of bird species that are typically less aggressive
While certain birds are known for aggressive behavior near their nests, many other species tend to be more docile and less likely to attack humans. Some examples of generally less aggressive bird species include:
Songbirds
- Chickadees
- Northern Cardinals
- Bluebirds
- Catbirds
- Wrens
- Warblers
Songbirds are small, perching birds that vocalize through singing. They are often shy and fearful of humans. Exceptions could include Eastern Phoebes and Barn Swallows which nest on buildings.
Woodpeckers
- Downy Woodpeckers
- Hairy Woodpeckers
- Northern Flickers
- Pileated Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers spend much of their time foraging on tree trunks and rarely interfere with people. Their excavated nest cavities are a major benefit to other secondary cavity nesters.
Waterfowl
- Mallard Ducks
- Canada Geese
- Mute Swans
- Coots
Waterfowl often reside in parks and open bodies of water. While messy with droppings, they seldom show aggression towards humans. One exception is nesting Canada Geese which may charge if nests are approached.
Aerial Insectivores
- Chimney Swifts
- Barn Swallows
- Purple Martins
- Nighthawks
These birds feed exclusively on flying insects while in flight. They are extremely beneficial for pest control and pose little threat to people. Their aerial lifestyles keep them at a distance from humans.
So in general, smaller species that don’t build nests on buildings are less problematic from an aggressive behavior standpoint. Focus deterrents on the specific birds causing issues around structures.
Conclusion
Dealing with aggressive and territorial birds can be frustrating, but there are many effective control options available. The key is using a multifaceted approach:
- Remove food sources to make yards less appealing.
- Deter nesting and perching with devices like reflective tape, wire spikes, ultrasonic repellers and sprinklers.
- Block access to nesting sites around buildings.
- Use harassment techniques to scare problematic birds away.
- Call professionals for severe ongoing bird problems.
Implementing these methods will convince troublesome birds to leave and prevent future conflicts. With some knowledge of bird behavior and proactive exclusion techniques, you can have a bird-free space to enjoy without harming your feathered friends.