Controlling Problems Birds in Your Barn

"I have had several nests of birds in the barn loft for years with no problems. I am glad to share space with them and hope they eat bugs up there," said Anne Brzezicki, an AQHA Professional Horseman from Tennessee.

The problem is that some birds are not satisfied with a peaceful coexistence. They pilfer expensive insulation for nesting materials and steal grain for meals. "We have had instances in the pasture when a large flock of birds scares horses away from their feed pans and eat the grain," she added.

In some cases the birds become fiercely protective of their new home, a.k.a. your barn, and attack people, horses and cats who visit or live in the stable. "They dive-bomb people, horses and cats while we are working," she said. "We have even had Starlings and Mockingbirds dive-bomb riders and horses when they were riding, scaring both the riders and the horses."

Controlling nuisance birds is likely something you have to deal with, unless you consider yourself lucky like trainer Jill Newcomb of Jill Newcomb Performance Horses in San Diego, California, who said, "I am so lucky I don't have a bird problem. I don't know of any barns near me with me with bird problems."

Common Controls

Once a flock of birds moves into your stable it can be difficult to get rid of them. There are a wide variety of techniques that can be used, some with more success than others. In most cases, they are most effective when used in combination.

Visual deterrents are one option. They include fake predators such as plastic owls, reflective tape, even traditional scarecrows fall into this category. Unfortunately, birds quickly adjust to these items and after a period of time are no longer intimidated by them.

Noise makers are another alternative. Commonly called bird bangers, cannons or pyrotechnics, these devices create a loud, thunder-clap like noise that scares birds away. As with the visual deterrents, birds can become used to the frightening device. Using multiple devices and regularly changing the location can help prolong their effects, but they are not a viable long-term solution. Before purchasing one of these devices find out if you are able to use it or if a professional is required. Also keep in mind that these noise-makers might cause more problems with your horses and horse owners than the birds!

Repellents are a third control technique. Liquid, granular and adhesive repellents discourage birds from congregating in areas where the repellent is applied. The repellent typically offers birds a bad taste when they ingest it to persuade them to stay away. A repellent should be used carefully as it can have unintended consequences for protected birds that accidentally come in contact with it.

Professional pest control companies may be able to offer additional advice or be able to perform specific services that potentially require permits. "We did consult with a company and did not find much help," Brzezicki said. "Eliminating their nests all together was the only technique that has worked for us."

Removal and/or relocation of the birds is the only guaranteed method for ridding your barn of birds. Eliminating areas where birds can roost, destroying nests and repairing any holes in the barn's structure eliminate access to nesting areas. In cases of severe infestations, extermination may be the only option.

Bird Identification

Before taking action to relocate or remove a bird or its nest from your stable, it's important to know which species of bird you are dealing with. Many species are federally protected by The Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Enacted in 1918, this provision made it unlawful to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill or sell birds protected under the act. In addition to federal

Credit: Thinkstock In order to keep your barns and sheds free of bird droppings...