Birds can quickly turn your beautiful and expensive urban outdoor furniture into a messy, damaged eyesore. Their droppings are acidic and can stain or even etch materials like wood, metal, and fabric. Fortunately, you don't have to choose between enjoying wildlife and protecting your investment. Here are several effective and humane methods to deter birds from perching on your furniture.
Physical Barriers and Blockades
The most straightforward approach is to make the perching spots inaccessible.
* Bird Spikes: These are narrow strips with pointed rods that make landing uncomfortable for birds. They are available in plastic or stainless steel and can be discreetly installed on chair backs, railings, and table edges. They are humane and do not harm the birds.
* Bird Netting: Drape a lightweight, durable netting over your entire furniture set when not in use. This creates a physical barrier that is highly effective for larger areas.
* Furniture Covers: Using custom-fit waterproof covers not only protects your furniture from the elements but also removes the immediate perching surface. Ensure the covers are tied down securely so they don't flap in the wind.
Visual and Auditory Deterrents
Scare birds away by targeting their sensitive senses of sight and hearing.
* Reflective Objects: Hang old CDs, reflective tape, or special bird-scaring reflective discs near your furniture. The moving light and flashes disorient and scare birds away.
* Decoy Predators: Place realistic-looking fake owls, hawks, or snakes on or near your furniture. To maintain effectiveness, move these decoys regularly so birds don't become accustomed to them.
* Ultrasonic Repellers: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to birds but are inaudible to most humans. They are a good low-profile option for urban settings.
Tactile and Scent Repellents
Make the surface of your furniture unpleasant for birds to land on.
* Bird Gel: Create a sticky, non-toxic surface on common perching spots. Birds dislike the gel-like texture on their feet. This is a low-profile method that is effective on rails and ledges.
* Scent Repellents: Birds have a strong sense of smell and dislike certain scents. You can place natural repellents like peppermint oil on cotton balls or use commercial citrus or garlic-based sprays around your furniture. Reapply these frequently, especially after rain.
Change the Environment
Make your patio or balcony less attractive to birds overall.
* Remove Food Sources: Ensure no food crumbs, open trash cans, or fallen fruit from nearby trees are accessible. A clean area offers no incentive for birds to visit.
* Install a Slanted Surface: For flat surfaces like a pergola beam, you can attach a slanted board. A 45-degree angle or greater makes it difficult for birds to balance comfortably.
By combining a couple of these methods, you can create a robust defense for your outdoor furniture. The key is consistency and occasionally rotating your tactics to prevent birds from getting used to a single deterrent. With these strategies, you can reclaim your outdoor space and keep it looking pristine.