Scare eye bird deterrents, also known as bird scaring eyes, are devices designed to look like predator eyes in order to scare birds away and prevent them from landing in a particular area. These deterrents usually consist of large, menacing eyes attached to balloons or placed on reflective plates that move in the wind. The idea is that birds will be frightened by what looks like a potential predator and will avoid the area. But do these scare eye deterrents actually work to keep birds away?
What are scare eye bird deterrents?
Scare eye bird deterrents, sometimes called bird scaring eyes or predator eyes, are devices that feature large, threatening eyes meant to scare birds. They often consist of:
- Large plastic, vinyl, or paper eyes attached to helium balloons that can be staked in place or tied down
- Reflective eyes on spinning plates or rods that move with the wind
- Decals with eye spots that can stick on windows or other surfaces
The large, menacing eyes are supposed to mimic the eyes of predatory birds like hawks and falcons. For many bird species, eyes are an indicator of threat. Birds that perceive eyes staring at them from below may instinctively react with fear and avoid the area.
Scare eye deterrents are commonly used in agricultural settings to try to keep birds away from crops and fish farming operations. They are also used in airports, on buildings, and in gardens to deter bird droppings. The goal is to humanely discourage birds from congregating and landing in particular spots without harming them.
Do scare eyes effectively deter birds?
Research shows that scare eye deterrents can be effective against some bird species, but not all. Effectiveness depends on:
- Bird species. Scare eyes work best on corvids (crows, ravens, magpies, etc.) and gull species. They are less effective against robins, sparrows, and other small songbirds.
- Location. Scare eyes work best in small enclosed areas, like over a small garden. They are less effective in large open spaces.
- Movement. Eyes that move in the wind or inflate and deflate randomly are more frightening than static eyes.
- Realism. Eyes that closely mimic real predator eyes are more likely to scare birds.
- Setup. Having multiple eyes at different heights overlooking an area is most effective.
Research from Washington State University found that scare eye balloons reduced crow populations in specific test fields by up to 33%. Another study found that reflective spinning plates with eye spots reduced crow damage to crops by 54% compared to untreated fields. However, results vary based on the factors above.
Pros of using scare eye bird deterrents
Here are some of the benefits of using scare eye deterrents:
- Humane. Scare eyes are a humane way to deter birds. They frighten birds away without harming them.
- Non-toxic. There are no chemicals or toxins involved. This is safer for birds, other wildlife, and the environment compared to poisons.
- Low maintenance. Once installed, scare eyes require little maintenance other than occasional replacement.
- Visual impact. The imposing eye spots stand out visually and remind birds not to land.
- Psychological effect. Eyes trigger an innate fear reaction in some species that drives them away.
For gardeners, landscapers, and farmers looking for an animal-friendly solution, scare eye deterrents can provide that visual cue to make birds move on without endangering them.
Cons of using scare eye bird deterrents
There are also some downsides to consider with scare eye deterrents:
- Only works on some species. Small songbirds often ignore scare eyes.
- Less effective long-term. Birds can become desensitized over time.
- Not 100% effective. Scare eyes reduce but don’t fully eliminate bird presence.
- Weather-dependent. Wind or rain can affect scare eyes that use balloons or spinning plates.
- Aesthetics. Some people don’t like the look of large plastic eyes.
- Setup. Proper setup with enough eyes at the right heights takes some time and effort.
Scare eyes are very species-dependent when it comes to effectiveness. And even for susceptible species, they can’t keep all birds away indefinitely. Their effects tend to decrease over time without reinforcement from other deterrents.
Tips for using scare eye bird deterrents effectively
Here are some tips to increase the effectiveness of scare eye deterrents:
- Use many eyes rather than just one or two. Birds are less threatened by a solo eye.
- Place eyes at multiple heights and angles to look more natural.
- Move eyes occasionally to create unpredictability.
- Replace faded eyes with fresh bright colors that stand out.
- Combine eyes with other deterrents like sounds or spikes for better results.
- Reinforce at intervals by relocating or adding new eyes periodically.
- Focus eyes on potential bird perches like fence posts, wires, and ledges.
Making the eyes dynamic, variable, and hyper-focused on areas birds like to land increases the psychological impact on them. Reinforcing with different deterrents prevents accommodation.
Alternative bird deterrent options
If scare eyes don’t seem to be cutting it for your situation, there are some other humane bird deterrent options to consider:
- Sounds. Birds don’t like predators’ calls or distress/alarm calls played through speakers. Ultrasonic devices also irritate some species.
- Physical barriers. Netting or wires strung over areas physically blocks birds from landing. Need proper installation.
- Shiny objects. Reflective tape, foil, or pinwheels create flashes of light and motion to startle birds.
- Smells. Strong scents from garlic, vinegar, or essential oils may repel some bird species.
- Fake predators. Lifelike replica owls, hawks, or snakes can scare certain birds.
A combination of multiple deterrents—like eyes, sounds, and physical barriers—provides the best chance of success. Rotate methods periodically so birds don’t become comfortable.
Key takeaways on scare eye bird deterrents
Here are some key points on whether or not scare eye bird deterrents work:
- Scare eyes can be effective against crows, gulls, and similar species but less so for small songbirds.
- They work best for small, enclosed areas like gardens rather than large open spaces.
- Moving, realistic eyes placed at multiple heights and angles work better than static solitary eyes.
- Scare eyes provide a humane visual deterrent but birds may acclimate after prolonged exposure.
- For best results, reinforce scare eyes by relocating them and combining them with other deterrents.
Conclusion
Scare eye bird deterrents can be a helpful tool in the bird control arsenal for certain scenarios and species. While they may reduce bird presence and droppings, they do not provide a complete and indefinite solution on their own. Their effectiveness depends on proper setup, reinforcement, combination with other methods, and targeting appropriate bird species. Scare eyes provide one animal-friendly option for visually signaling birds to move on without physical harm.