Birds pecking holes in your house could result in significant damage to your house over time. Such damage would attract costly repair work and undermine the integrity of your house. Although this behaviour is mostly blamed on woodpeckers, it has been observed that other bird species peck at surfaces to find food, nesting sites, and mark territories as well. Fortunately, there are some ways that work to discourage birds from pecking holes effectively while ensuring their safety. Addressing the roots, as well as the preventive measures applied, will ensure the protection of the house and harmony in the relationship with nature.
Why Birds Peck at Your House
Birds peck for many reasons, and knowing why they peck is the first step to stopping them. Woodpeckers seek insects, dig for nests, or drum to call other birds. They often do this to wood siding, fascia boards, and any other soft, exposed surfaces.
Other birds may peck at reflective surfaces like windows or metal, mistaking their own reflection for a rival. Pecking behaviours can also result from territorial instincts or the need to hollow out spaces for nesting. By understanding these triggers, you can implement solutions that effectively address the problem.
Use Physical Barriers to Deter Birds
One of the most reliable ways to discourage birds from pecking holes in your house is to install physical barriers. Bird netting, for instance, can be draped over problem areas, preventing birds from accessing the surface. Lightweight materials like metal mesh or flashing can also be installed over wood siding or corners where birds frequently peck.
For areas such as eaves or soffits, using bird spikes or angled blocks can make landing spots uncomfortable and unappealing. These barriers are humane and ensure birds do not harm themselves while attempting to access your home. Additionally, closing gaps and sealing cracks in your home’s exterior can eliminate nesting opportunities and further reduce bird activity.
Utilize Visual Deterrents
Birds are very sensitive to visible stimuli, so reflective repellents can be a very efficient way to keep birds from coming around. The most common items used in making reflective deterrents include shiny tape, aluminum foil, or small mirrors hanging near the areas birds keep pecking on, which create a light visual disturbance that discourages their return. These are some ways that work to discourage birds from pecking holes without resorting to harmful methods.
Another method to keep birds away is through the use of decoy predators, like plastic owls or hawks. Moving the decoys periodically enhances their effectiveness, as birds can quickly recognize static objects. For best results, combine visual deterrents with other methods to create a comprehensive strategy.
Address Insect Infestations
The common cause for birds to peck on houses is feeding on the insects that take refuge in the wooden frames. Some of the bugs, including termites and carpenter ants, might attract the birds, leading to pecking around that house. Therefore, inspect your home thoroughly for signs of infestation by insects.
If pests show up, the problem can easily be solved by hiring pest control professionals to deal with them. Bird activity can also be suppressed through maintenance. For example, using insect-repellent finishes on wood surfaces inhibits the growth of certain pests.
Implement Noise-Based Deterrents
Birds depend a lot on their auditory senses, which means that deterrents involving sounds will work effectively against pecking. Any device emitting ultrasonic sounds or distress calls will deter birds from landing in that environment. These devices are designed to be safe for both humans and birds while targeting the frequencies that deter specific species.
For a more hands-on approach, you can also use wind chimes or noisemakers near problem areas. The unpredictable nature of the sounds will discourage birds from lingering around your home.
Maintain Your Home’s Exterior
Proper home maintenance plays a critical role in discouraging birds from pecking holes. Regularly inspect your home for signs of wear and tear, such as loose boards, decayed wood, or peeling paint. These imperfections can make your home more attractive to birds looking for nesting or foraging opportunities.
Repainting wood surfaces with durable, weather-resistant paint or applying a protective sealant can reduce bird interest. Some homeowners also opt for bird-safe chemical repellents, which create an unpleasant taste or smell, deterring birds without causing harm.
Encourage Birds to Stay Elsewhere
Creating alternative spaces for birds to peck, nest, or forage can help redirect their activity away from your home. Installing birdhouses or feeders at a safe distance from your house can provide them with more suitable options. Opt for materials and designs that appeal to the species in your area, encouraging them to use these spaces instead of your home.
Planting native trees and shrubs can also create a welcoming habitat for birds, offering them natural shelter and food sources. By meeting their needs in other areas, you reduce the likelihood of them causing damage to your property.
Seek Professional Assistance for Persistent Issues
If bird-related damage persists despite your efforts, consulting a professional can help you implement long-term solutions. Companies specializing in wildlife control, such as Alberta Parging, offer tailored strategies to address bird activity effectively. From repairing existing damage to installing deterrents, their services provide homeowners with peace of mind.
Professional assistance is especially valuable if you’re dealing with protected bird species, such as woodpeckers. Laws regarding these species may limit the methods you can use, and experts can ensure compliance while protecting your home.
Conclusion
When it comes to safeguarding your home, there are some ways that work to discourage birds from pecking holes without causing harm to the birds or compromising your property’s integrity. Preventing birds from pecking holes in your house requires a combination of understanding their behaviour, addressing potential attractants, and implementing effective deterrents. By taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your home from damage and maintain its aesthetic appeal.
For more information on repairing woodpecker-related damage and choosing the right materials, check out our blog, What’s a Good Wood Filler for Large Woodpecker Holes on a Deck? Alberta Parging is here to help with expert repairs and preventative solutions tailored to your needs.
Protect your home and enjoy the beauty of birds from a safe distance by implementing these strategies today.
