Finding an unwanted bird nest on your property can be a nuisance, but there are humane and legal ways to remove it. Birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so you cannot disturb or destroy active nests with eggs or young birds still in them. However, unoccupied nests can be removed. This article will provide tips on identifying active vs inactive nests, excluding birds from building nests in undesirable areas, and safely removing inactive nests.
How to Tell if a Bird Nest is Active or Inactive
Here are some signs that a bird nest is currently active and should be left alone:
- Adult birds entering and exiting the nest.
- Signs of nest building like gathering sticks and grass.
- Adult birds carrying food to the nest.
- Sounds of chirping coming from the nest.
- Eggs or baby birds visible in the nest.
A nest that looks old, abandoned, or incomplete may be inactive. Other signs a nest is inactive:
- Nest looks weathered, faded, falling apart.
- No birds seen at the nest for several days.
- No sound coming from the nest.
- No more eggs or babies present.
If you are unsure if a nest is active, monitor it for 30-45 minutes. If no adult birds visit within that time, it is likely inactive. It is best to avoid removing nests during spring and summer when most birds are nesting and raising young.
Excluding Birds from Nesting in Undesirable Areas
It is much easier to prevent birds from building nests in bothersome areas than to remove them once they are built. Here are some tips for making your home or property less attractive to nesting birds:
Block Access to Nest Sites
Birds often nest on ledges, eaves, beams, or corners of structures. Use hardware cloth, chicken wire, or netting to cover up nooks and crannies birds could nest in. Make sure to do this outside of breeding season.
Use Repellents
There are a few types of repellents that may deter birds from nesting:
- Fake owls or snakes – Birds see them as predators.
- Shiny objects like pinwheels or aluminum foil strips – Reflect light and move in the wind.
- Scent repellents – Use smells birds dislike such as garlic, menthol, or eucalyptus oil. Reapply often.
Remove Attractions
Eliminate food and water sources that may attract birds. Keep trash lids shut, clean up spilled seed from feeders, and consider removing bird feeders and bird baths altogether.
How to Remove an Inactive Bird Nest
If you confirm a nest is inactive, here are some tips for safe removal:
Wear Protective Gear
Wear gloves, a dust mask, and eye protection when removing old nests. Some birds use sticks with thorns or nests may contain bird mites. Be cautious of wasp nests around birds nests too.
Remove Nest Completely
Take down the entire nest structure and debris so birds are not tempted to re-use the same site. You may need a broom or brush to sweep down high nests.
Clean the Area
Wash down the surface around the nest to remove any leftover twigs, droppings, feathers, or parasites. Disinfect the area with a 10% bleach solution.
Block Future Nests
Install barriers like netting or spikes to prevent birds from rebuilding in the same spot. Do this immediately after removing nests.
Seal Holes and Cracks
Use caulk or expandable foam sealant to close up any crevices birds may have used to access a nest site. Trim back tree branches or shrubs to discourage nests.
Dispose of the Nest Properly
Place the removed nest and contents into a plastic bag, seal it, and throw it out with your household trash. Do not compost active nests.
When to Get Professional Help
In some cases, it may be best to hire a wildlife control professional to remove bird nests:
- High nests that are dangerous or difficult to reach.
- Large infestations of nests.
- Swallow nests – They have protected status.
- Colonial nesters like swifts, starlings, or house sparrows.
Professionals have equipment, licensing, and experience removing nests from tricky locations. Make sure to verify they use humane, non-lethal methods.
Protecting Nesting Native Birds
Many native bird species are declining but can be helped by providing nest sites and preserving nests each season. Here are tips to support native birds nesting on your property:
- Put up nest boxes suited to species like bluebirds, chickadees, or owls.
- Provide natural nesting material like pet fur, yarn, or moss.
- Supply native plants that produce berries, seeds, and insects birds eat.
- Add a birdbath, fountain, or mister for drinking and bathing.
- Avoid pruning trees and shrubs during nesting season.
Focus on removing non-native nests like starlings, house sparrows, or pigeons which outcompete native birds. Let native species complete their nesting cycle before removing nests.
Conclusion
Bird nests can create messes, damage structures, or become a nuisance. However, it is important to identify if a nest is active or not before removing it. There are humane deterrents to discourage nest building and safe methods to eliminate old nests. With some patience and care for wild birds, property owners can resolve issues with problem nests. Hiring professionals may be needed for large or tricky nest removals. Whenever possible, try to accommodate our native bird species by providing nesting sites and preserving their nests.