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How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed

blackbird eating grass

Late summer and early fall is the ideal time for growing grass seed. During this transitional season, soil temperatures are just right for seed germination. If you are planning to reseed your lawn during this prime time, it is important to understand how to protect the items you are planting. Here are six ways to prevent birds from eating your grass seed. 

What Birds To Expect

If birds are invading your property, they are most likely there for food. Exposed food sources, such as seeds, are a sure way to lure hungry birds and interrupt your growing process. When grass seeds are spread out in the open, it provides easy access for birds to feast and continue to come back for more. Types of birds that eat grass seed include: 

  • Sparrows
  • Finches
  • Pigeons
  • Blackbirds
  • Meadowlarks
  • Cardinals

While these may be the common culprits, the majority of birds are still a threat. Even if other bird species aren’t eating seeds, they may disrupt the seedlings while digging for worms or insects in your soil. 

Related: The Complete Guide on How to Get Rid of Pigeons 

How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed With Repellent Nets

Netting is a common method for protecting crops or seedlings from birds. With repellent nets, thin material is placed over your grass seed to keep birds from eating it. The light polyurethane material is thin enough for water and sunlight to get through to the seeds. This way, your grass can flourish without the interruption of hungry birds.

When installing repellent netting, it is recommended that the net sits a few inches above the soil to prevent birds from pecking through. 

Related: Bird Netting Do’s and Don’ts 

How to Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed Using Alternative Resources

With hungry birds consuming your seeds, try providing them with alternative resources. Setting up food for birds will satisfy their appetite without coming for your grass seed. A bird feeder is an easy way to provide birds with the seeds they are looking for. Ingredients to put in your bird feeder could be:

  • Black oil sunflower seeds
  • Peanuts
  • Dried fruit
  • Millet
  • Cracked corn
  • Suet cakes

No matter what you fill your bird feeder with, remember to keep the feeders away from any seeded areas. Setting up the food sources away from the grass seed can lessen the chance of birds discovering your new seeds. 

How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed Using Straw And Mulch

Spreading mulch over your grass seed can help keep birds away from the area. Mulch serves as a distraction and hides the grass seed from the bird’s point of view. Use certified weed-free straw mulch when protecting grass seed to receive the additional benefit of preventing the growth of weeds in your yard. Other ways mulch will help is by retaining soil moisture and regulating soil temperature. This method can protect your grass seed from hungry birds while receiving extra perks in the process.

How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed With Burlap Sheets

Burlap is a common tool used by gardeners to protect plants. The natural material is loosely woven together and provides many benefits for planting. With the material being loose, water and sunlight can easily get through to nourish the seedlings. The advantages of using burlap sheets are that they:

  • Prevent seed erosion 
  • Protect from winter damage
  • Restrict the growth of weeds
  • Retain soil moisture 
  • Protect from harsh UV rays
  • Keep birds from eating seeds

When installing burlap sheets, use pin wires to hold down the material. The material can lay over top of the seeded area but will need reinforcement to keep it in place. 

How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed With Noise Deterrents

Using various sound deterrents is a common way to keep birds away from any situation. No matter what is causing birds to linger around, using noise deterrents is an effective way to scare them off. This can be done using sound machines that mimic predator calls, loud cannon noises to scare them off and more.

However, it is important to consider your surroundings when testing out new sound machines. If you have neighbors or animals close by, consider using ultrasonic frequencies that are above the human range of hearing. These sounds can cause birds to become disoriented and stay away from your property. 

Related: Best Practices for Effective Bird Pest Control

How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed With Liquid Bird Repellent 

Liquid bird repellent is a simple, effective way to protect your property from birds. This spray is long-lasting and non-lethal to birds, plants, humans, or pets. Using a liquid bird repellent eliminates any visual disruptions or eye sores to your yard that other methods may provide. This is a proven method that will teach birds to avoid your grass seed. 

How Avian Control Can Help

Avian Control is a liquid bird repellent that will keep your grass seed safe from hungry birds. This product is both non-toxic and EPA registered to ensure it is safe to use around you and your seeds. 

Our liquid repellent lasts up to two weeks and will not harm you, your produce or your animals. Call 888.868.1982 to order or contact us for more information today!

How To Keep Birds From Eating Grass Seed