How to Stop Swallows Building Nests on Your House: A Comprehensive Guide
Effectively preventing swallows from nesting on your property involves a combination of deterrent strategies and understanding their behavior; this article provides actionable steps to deter these birds and protect your home. You can learn How do you stop swallows building nests on your house?
Understanding the Appeal of Your Home to Swallows
Swallows, particularly barn swallows, are drawn to specific features that make your house an attractive nesting site. Understanding these factors is crucial for effective prevention.
- Sheltered Locations: Swallows prefer eaves, overhangs, porches, and other areas that offer protection from the elements and predators.
- Mud Availability: As mud is the primary building material for their nests, proximity to a mud source (puddles, streams, damp soil) significantly increases the likelihood of nest construction.
- Rough Surfaces: Barn swallows need a slightly rough surface to which their mud nests can adhere. Smooth surfaces are less appealing.
Ethical Considerations
Before implementing any preventative measures, consider the ethical aspects. Swallows are migratory birds, and many are protected under laws such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It’s essential to:
- Avoid Disrupting Active Nests: It is illegal to destroy or disturb active nests with eggs or young. Prevention should be done before the nesting season or after young have fledged. Check your local regulations.
- Humane Deterrents: Choose methods that deter swallows without causing harm or injury.
- Timing is Key: Most swallows nest between April and August. Start preventative measures early in the spring, before they begin nest building.
Practical Deterrents: Making Your House Less Appealing
Here’s a breakdown of effective deterrents you can implement to prevent swallows from building nests:
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Physical Barriers:
- Netting: Install bird netting under eaves, overhangs, and other preferred nesting sites. The netting should be taut and securely attached to prevent birds from getting trapped.
- Plastic Sheeting: Hang clear plastic sheeting or strips vertically from eaves. The movement in the wind deters swallows.
- Porcupine Wire (Bird Spikes): These spikes are blunt and designed to deter birds without causing harm. Install them on ledges and other flat surfaces.
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Visual Deterrents:
- Reflective Tape or Spinners: The flashing light disorients and scares birds. Hang strips of reflective tape or purchase commercially available bird spinners.
- Decoy Predators: Owls or hawks are natural predators of swallows. Place realistic decoy predators near potential nesting sites. Move them regularly to maintain effectiveness.
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Surface Modification:
- Smooth Surfaces: Apply a smooth, non-stick coating to surfaces where swallows typically build nests. This makes it difficult for them to attach mud.
- Remove Nesting Platforms: Eliminate any small ledges or projections that could serve as a foundation for a nest.
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Mud Source Reduction:
- Improve Drainage: Reduce standing water and muddy areas near your house. Repair leaky pipes and improve drainage systems.
Maintaining Your Deterrents
Deterrents are most effective when properly maintained.
- Regular Cleaning: Remove any partially built nests promptly to discourage further construction.
- Netting Inspections: Regularly inspect netting for tears or gaps and repair them immediately.
- Visual Deterrent Adjustments: Move visual deterrents periodically to prevent swallows from becoming accustomed to them.
Comparing Different Deterrent Methods
| Deterrent Method | Effectiveness | Cost | Maintenance | Humane? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ——————— | —————- | ——— | ————- | ——— |
| Netting | High | Medium | High | Yes |
| Plastic Sheeting | Medium | Low | Medium | Yes |
| Bird Spikes | High | Medium | Low | Yes |
| Reflective Tape | Medium | Low | Low | Yes |
| Decoy Predators | Medium | Medium | Low | Yes |
| Smooth Coatings | High | Medium | Low | Yes |
| Mud Source Reduction | High | Variable | Variable | Yes |
What Not To Do
- Do not harm swallows or their nests during nesting season. This is illegal and inhumane.
- Do not use sticky traps or glue boards. These traps are inhumane and can harm other animals.
- Avoid using ultrasonic devices that claim to repel birds. These devices are often ineffective and can disturb pets and neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will swallows return to the same nest year after year?
Yes, swallows often return to the same nesting sites year after year. This makes early intervention crucial to prevent them from establishing a presence on your property. Removing nests immediately after the fledging season is essential.
How do I safely remove a swallow nest?
Once the nesting season is over (usually after August), you can safely remove the nest. Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from potential contaminants. Scrape the nest off carefully and dispose of it properly. Then, clean the area thoroughly to remove any remaining debris or nesting materials.
Are swallow nests a health hazard?
Swallow nests can harbor parasites and mites, and their droppings can be unsightly and potentially carry diseases. Regular cleaning and maintenance of areas where swallows nest are important for minimizing health risks.
Is it legal to remove a swallow nest during nesting season?
It is generally illegal to remove a swallow nest during the nesting season if it contains eggs or young. Swallows are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits the destruction of active nests.
What are some natural ways to deter swallows?
Natural deterrents include using decoy predators like owls or hawks, hanging reflective tape or spinners, and improving drainage to reduce mud sources. These methods are humane and environmentally friendly.
How can I tell if a swallow nest is active?
An active nest will have adult swallows frequently visiting it, carrying food or nesting materials. You may also see or hear young birds inside the nest. If in doubt, observe the nest from a distance for several hours.
What kind of netting is best for deterring swallows?
Bird netting with a mesh size of ¾ inch or smaller is effective in preventing swallows from accessing nesting sites. Ensure the netting is UV-resistant and durable enough to withstand the elements.
Will using bird spikes harm the swallows?
No, bird spikes are designed to deter birds without causing harm. They have blunt tips that prevent birds from landing on surfaces but do not injure them.
How effective are visual deterrents like reflective tape and spinners?
Visual deterrents can be moderately effective, especially when used in combination with other methods. The movement and flashing light disorient and scare birds, making them less likely to nest in the area. However, swallows may become accustomed to these deterrents over time, so it’s important to move them periodically.
What if swallows are nesting on my business property?
The same deterrent methods apply to business properties as to residential homes. However, if you have a large infestation or complex situation, consider consulting with a professional bird control company.
Will swallows eventually give up if I keep removing their nests?
Yes, if you consistently remove partially built nests and implement other deterrent measures, swallows will eventually give up and seek nesting sites elsewhere. Persistence is key to achieving long-term success.
How do you stop swallows building nests on your house? If nothing else works, who should I call?
After exhausting all DIY methods to stop swallows building nests on your property, and if the problem persists, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife control company specializing in bird control. They can assess your specific situation and recommend the most effective and humane solutions.