Quick Answers
Some quick answers to common questions about getting rid of birds nesting in soffits:
– Block access points to prevent birds from entering and nesting in soffits
– Install bird netting, spikes, or other deterrents to make soffits less attractive to birds
– Remove any existing nests and eggs – this may require professional help
– Use sounds/visual deterrents like aluminum foil, predator decoys, or flashing lights
– Hang fake snakes or owls near problem areas to scare off birds
– Apply chemical bird repellent gels to problem areas
– Consider trimming back trees/shrubs near soffits to reduce cover
– Use a combination of tactics for best results; persistence is key
Why Do Birds Nest in Soffits?
Birds often choose to build their nests in the soffit area of homes for several reasons:
– Soffits provide shelter and protection from weather and predators. The overhang gives birds a covered space that is elevated off the ground.
– They offer warmth underneath the roof overhang, which birds find appealing, especially in the springtime for nesting their young.
– The narrow gaps and vents in soffits allow birds easy access inside to build nests. Openings as small as 3 inches across can provide an entry point for determined birds.
– Birds like enclosed cavities like soffits for nesting – they have walls on three sides which help the nest feel more secure.
– Soffits are often somewhat hidden and tucked away from main living spaces, giving birds a secluded spot for their nest that homeowner activity won’t easily disturb.
– Many common pest bird species like house sparrows, starlings and pigeons are cavity nesters by nature and attracted to soffit spaces that mimic the tree hollows and rock crevices they would nest in in the wild.
Problems Caused by Birds Nesting in Soffits
Allowing birds like pigeons, sparrows, starlings or swallows to nest in your soffits can lead to some unpleasant issues:
– Nesting materials like twigs, straw and mud can build up and clog gutters or block ventilation, causing water and moisture damage.
– Droppings staining exterior walls and walkways are unsightly and unhygienic. Bird feces are acidic and can damage surfaces.
– Nests may contain mites, fleas, ticks and other parasites. These can spread to your home if birds enter the attic space. Diseases like histoplasmosis are also concerns with bird droppings.
– Birds make noise and can be noisy neighbors for nesting close to bedrooms or living areas. Squawking young hatchlings demand feeding frequently.
– Eggs and hatchlings dying in hard-to-reach areas causes bad odors. Dead birds or droppings can attract other pests too.
– Some birds are aggressive during nesting season and may swoop or dive bomb as they defend their nests.
– Nests may become a recurring problem year after year if not properly removed and access points sealed.
Types of Birds Known to Nest in Soffits
Here are some of the most common species of birds that often try to nest in the enclosed soffit and eave areas:
Sparrows
House sparrows and Eurasian tree sparrows readily nest in cavities like soffits. They will aggressively compete for nest sites, even taking over other bird’s nests. These social birds like to nest in colonies.
Pigeons
Rock pigeons are one of the most common birds that will nest and roost on structures. The ledges and openings of soffits often attract these birds who build flimsy nests out of sticks and debris.
Starlings
European starlings often nest in building crevices and holes. They will nest in colonies, cramming together into any cavity space they can fit into. Starlings are extremely messy nesters.
House Wrens
Though small, wrens are feisty birds determined to claim nesting spots. They will readily use soffits and may even fill up other bird’s nests with sticks to try to take them over.
Swallows
Cliff swallows, barn swallows, and other species build mud flask-shaped nests on structures. They prefer more open eaves but will sometimes nest at soffit openings.
Woodpeckers
Damage from woodpeckers drilling into soffits allows other birds access. Sealing these holes deters woodpeckers and prevents future bird problems.
Bird Species | Nesting Behaviors |
---|---|
House sparrows | Aggressive nesters, will evict other birds. Nest in colonies. |
Pigeons | Build flimsy stick nests. Often nest in groups. |
Starlings | Cram into cavities in large noisy colonies. Very messy. |
House wrens | Feisty and determined. Will fill other nests with sticks. |
Swallows | Mud nests prefer open eaves but sometimes soffits. |
Woodpeckers | Drilling damages soffits and allows access for other birds. |
How to Prevent Birds Nesting in Soffits
To stop birds from nesting in soffits, the key is denying them entry in the first place. This involves identifying and blocking off all potential access points into the soffit area. Here are some tips:
Inspect Soffits and Vents
Closely inspect your eaves and soffits for any gaps or holes that could allow birds inside. Look for damaged vent screens, gaps around pipes or wires, loose boards, or missing insulation that provides an entry point. Even openings 3 inches wide can provide access.
Block Holes and Crevices
Seal up any openings with copper mesh, stainless steel wool, caulk or expandable foam. For larger gaps, cut custom pieces of wood or metal to plug holes. Ensure all venting remains unblocked to prevent moisture issues.
Install New Vent Screens
Replace any damaged vent screens with new 1/4-inch galvanized steel hardware cloth screen. Staple securely around all vents. Screens should be rust-resistant and durable enough that birds cannot easily pry them open or tear holes.
Add Bird Netting or Nylon Spikes
Covering ledges, roof peaks and the underside of overhangs with bird netting or nylon bird spikes blocks landing and nesting access. Choose UV-resistant, heavy-duty netting that will not easily sag or tear free.
Prune Overhanging Branches
Trim back any trees or shrubs close to the house. Eliminating branches that touch or overhang the roof removes protective cover and easy roof access for birds.
Apply Repellent Gel
Non-toxic bird gel repellents like Bird-X, Bird Blaster or 4 The Birds coating on ledges deters birds from landing. Reapply after rain until birds learn to avoid. Use caution on some surfaces like stone or tile.
Removing Existing Nests from Soffits
If birds have already begun nesting in your home’s soffits, those nests need to be removed to prevent re-use and further problems:
Timing is Critical
Avoid removing nests during spring and early summer when eggs or young may be present. Doing so is illegal due to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Nests should only be removed during fall or winter months when vacant.
Get Professional Help
Nests can often be difficult to reach or remove safely. Professional pest control experts or handypersons have the necessary equipment like lifts or scaffolding to access problem areas. They can also correctly identify protected species.
Use Proper Protective Gear
Wear gloves, safety goggles, masks and coveralls when clearing bird nests due to health risks from droppings, bacteria, mites, fleas and debris. Securely bag and dispose of all waste.
Knock Down Nesting Materials
Use a stiff brush with an extension pole to dislodge sticks, mud or other building materials from the nest. You want to remove the nest’s structural integrity and render it unusable.
Seal Off Entry Points
After removing nests, take action to close up any cavities or gaps the birds accessed. Use metal plates, hardware cloth, expanding foam, wood putty or caulk to make sure they cannot rebuild.
Bird Deterrents to Use in Soffits
In addition to blocking physical access, there are several effective bird deterrents that can be installed in problem soffit areas:
Aluminum Foil
Shiny twisting strips or aluminum foil around vents or openings creates movement and noise that distracts birds. This inexpensive solution may work for a short time until birds become accustomed.
Predator Replicas
Plastic owl or snake models can frighten some birds. Move them occasionally to different spots for best results. More lifelike models or actual taxidermy mounts work better than cheap plastic decorations.
Scare Balloons
Mylar or holographic scare balloons have eye spots and move in the wind. Hang these near problem nests already under construction to scare off birds. They are less effective preventing new nests.
Ultrasonic Devices
Sonic bird deterrents emit high-frequency sounds only birds can hear. They are effective for a period, but birds may become desensitized. Broadcast range must reach the nesting area.
Electric Track Systems
Low-voltage electrified tracks like Bird-Shock Flex-Track can be mounted along soffits or roof peaks to deliver a mild non-lethal shock when birds land. Use extreme caution and warning signs.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Sprinkler deterrents mounted in the problem area spray birds only when triggered by movement, helping save water. Avoid models that could spray water up into soffit openings.
Deterrent Method | How It Works |
---|---|
Aluminum foil strips | Shiny noisy distraction |
Predator replicas | Lifelike models frighten birds |
Scare balloons | Reflective spinning balloons startle birds |
Ultrasonic devices | Emits high-frequency sound waves |
Electric track | Gives birds a safe mild shock |
Motion sprinklers | Sprays birds intermittently |
Using Bird Repellent Chemicals in Soffits
Non-toxic bird repellent gels and solutions can also be applied directly onto soffit surfaces where birds roost or nest:
Apply Repellent Gels
Gels like Bird-X Transparent Bird Gel smear onto areas where birds land. Its tacky texture deters perching, nesting and roosting. Reapply after rain.
Use Liquid Bird Repellents
Liquid repellents like Bird-X Bird Proof clear liquid can be sprayed directly onto unwanted roosting spots. Avoid overspray getting inside vents. Reapply every 30-60 days.
Consider Hot Pepper Solutions
Natural capsaicin-based repellents like Bird-X Bird Proof hot pepper wax derive from cayenne peppers. Birds dislike the spicy scent. Exercise caution of overspray and wear gloves during application.
Read Product Instructions Carefully
Follow all label directions closely for any repellent product. Use proper personal protection and avoid contact with unintended surfaces. Improper use can be illegal, unsafe and ineffective.
Reapply Frequently
Depending on environmental exposure, most liquid bird repellents require reapplying every 30-60 days, more frequently in rainy conditions. Persistence is key to successful repelling.
Using Exclusion Devices to Keep Birds Out of Soffits
Physical exclusion options can also block birds from entering soffit areas:
Install Bird Netting
Netting over roof peaks, chimneys and other problem areas denies bird access. Use UV-resistant 3/4 inch mesh netting designed specifically for outdoor bird exclusion.
Attach Metal Screens
Screens of galvanized 1/2 inch steel hardware cloth can exclude birds from enclosed soffit areas when installed properly. Leave no gaps for birds to get through or around barriers.
Add Roof Ridge Caps
Metal cap shingles along the roof ridge will prevent birds from landing. Birds use the roof peak area to access and exit soffit openings. Caps remove this access point.
Plug Entry Points
Use concrete, steel wool, caulk, wood, expandable foam or other materials to plug specific soffit holes. Custom cut materials may be required for a proper fit.
Hang Wind Chimes Near Problem Areas
Wind chimes create noise and movement that deters birds from nesting on nearby surfaces. Position several chimes to reach all problem areas for maximum effectiveness.
Exclusion Method | Prevents Bird Access By |
---|---|
Bird netting | Creating protective ceiling over area |
Metal screening | Forming physical barrier birds cannot enter |
Roof ridge caps | Removing landing spot along roof peak |
Plugging holes | Sealing up specific entry points |
Wind chimes | Creating noise/movement deterrent |
Conclusion
Preventing birds from nesting in soffits requires diligence, persistence, and employing a combination of tactics. Blocking physical access to enclosed soffit areas is the most critical first step. Installing vent covers, sealing holes, and trimming vegetation denies entry. Supplement with visual scare devices, sprinklers, sound repellents and chemical gels where nesting is already underway. Removing existing nests and any food sources like insects will also make a location less attractive. With an effective exclusion plan and deterrent discouragement, you can successfully convince birds to nest elsewhere outside your home.