For homeowners trying to successfully deter birds, the presence of a bird nest in your yard can be a scary sight. Unfortunately, due to legal issues and the delicacy of bird nests, removal can be a tricky process. You may not have any legal right to move or touch the nest, making familiarly with the process of removal very important. The following article will get you up to speed on the ins and outs of bird nest removal and ensure that your bird deterrence strategies are not hindered.
The first course of action you need to take when you decide you want to remove a bird’s nest is to familiarize yourself with the laws regarding bird nest removal in your area. Many states and provinces strictly prohibit the removal of most bird species, with certain exceptions. However, there are also cases where it is necessary, including when the nests are unused or located in a dangerous location. Unsafe locations include:
- Ventilation systems
- Around doors and walkways
If you find a nest in any of these locations, prompt removal is necessary. However, keep in mind that if the nest has chicks or eggs in it, you are required to contact your local animal or bird rescue authority to carry out the removal. Only if the nest is empty it is safe to remove by yourself. Once you have determined that the nest is safe to remove, take the following steps to ensure proper nest removal:
- Make sure that there are no eggs or chicks in the nest. Keep an eye on the nest for a few days prior to removal to ensure that all birds have vacated the nest.
- Put on a pair of gloves to protect yourself against possible infections. You never know what types of microscopic organisms can live in a birds nest.
- Dispose of the nest in a compost bin.
- Clean the nest area with bleach and water.
So now the hard part is over: the nest is gone and your yard is free from the possibility of bird reproduction. However, there is a very important final step required to prevent birds from nesting around your home again. If the nest was located in a tree, cut off the branches in proximity to where the nest was created. Alternatively, if the nest was located somewhere else around your home, utilize the various bird deterrent methods outlined in our other articles such as Bird Netting, Bird Deterrent Spikes, Using OvoControl, Ultrasonic Bird Repeller and Modern Scarecrows. Proper utilization of these bird deterrent methods will help prevent birds from nesting around your home.