Getting birds out of walls can be tricky, but here are some tips that may help:
Identify the type of bird
The first step is figuring out what type of bird has made its way into your walls. Common culprits include sparrows, starlings, woodpeckers, and swallows. Knowing the species can help you determine the best removal method. You may be able to identify the bird by its sounds or by any nesting materials and droppings it leaves behind.
Locate the entry point
Check both the interior and exterior of your home to find holes, gaps, or cracks where a bird could get in. Pay close attention around vents, soffits, roof edges, chimneys, and areas where wires come into the house. Block the entry points temporarily with steel wool, caulk, or another sealant so more birds can’t get inside.
Use noise repellents
For birds like sparrows that are nesting in voids within your walls, noise repellents may convince them to leave. Try placing a radio tuned to talk radio near their entry point and keep it playing 24/7. The constant chatter disturbs the birds and makes the space seem less safe for nesting.
Install spike strips or netting
Plastic spike strips or netting can be placed over ledges, roof edges, rafters, and other spots birds are using to access your walls. The sharp spikes or tangled net make it impossible for them to land or nest in those areas. Just be sure to install them in a way that allows birds to safely exit without harm.
Use mild pest control chemicals
Non-toxic bird gels, liquids, and foams can be applied to infested areas, nests, and entry points. The mild pesticides make birds sick or irritate their feet and feathers, discouraging them from remaining or returning. However, extreme caution must be used to avoid harming the birds. Only apply a light coating where absolutely necessary.
Try trapping and releasing
For wall-dwelling birds you can locate, live trapping may be an option. Place a small cage trap outside the entry hole, bait it with food attractive to the target species, then monitor it closely until a bird goes inside. Once captured, immediately release the bird outdoors at least 5 miles away so it can’t find its way back. Be sure trapping and relocating is legal in your area first.
Use a one-way exclusion door
One effective DIY method is installing a one-way exclusion door over the hole where birds are entering the wall space. Use hardware cloth or similar wire mesh to make a flap the birds can leave through but not re-enter. Monitor the door daily to confirm when all birds have exited, then seal the hole permanently.
Call a wildlife removal company
For severe infestations or complex situations, calling a professional may be warranted. A wildlife control expert can properly identify the species, locate all access points, safely remove nests and droppings, and install top-of-the-line exclusion solutions to get birds out and keep them out humanely and effectively.
Conclusion
Birds that make their home inside walls can cause noise, mess, damage, and health concerns. But there are many humane options available for removing them and sealing up their access. Taking proactive prevention steps like installing bird netting, spike strips, and one-way exclusion doors can also help avoid problems in the future. With some persistence and patience, you can get your walls bird-free and keep them that way.
Bird Species | Removal Methods |
---|---|
Sparrows | Noise repellents, trapping and relocating, exclusion devices |
Starlings | Spikes, netting, one-way doors, mild pest control chemicals |
Woodpeckers | Sealing holes, trapping, exclusion doors |
Swallows | Prevention netting, sealing nests after fledging, trapping |
Birds can squeeze into very small gaps and cracks to get into walls for nesting. Here are some common entry points they use and exclusion methods that can stop them:
Entry Point | Exclusion Method |
---|---|
Openings around vents | Steel wool, caulk |
Gaps along roof line | Spike strips |
Spaces near wires | Caulk, foam, metal plates |
Cracks around chimneys | Steel wool, caulk, metal flashing |
Holes in soffits | Wire mesh, one-way doors |
When removing birds from walls, safety should always be the top concern. Here are some tips for humane and careful removal:
- Properly identify species to ensure best practices for that bird
- Seal entry holes carefully to avoid trapping birds inside
- Monitor all one-way exclusion doors until certain no birds remain inside
- Avoid using toxic chemicals whenever possible
- Wear protective gear when cleaning out nests and droppings
- Work under guidance of wildlife experts if needed
- Release trapped birds outdoors quickly and far from home
- Use prevention methods to avoid problems recurring