We may be used to birds migrating south in the winter, freeing up the potential threats to barns. However, there are certain species that still hang around in the colder months, seeking a warm place to stay.
Although they seem harmless, problems can build up over time and become pricey, annoying and harmful. Be aware of the damages birds can cause to barns and also how to prevent them.
Dangers of Barn Birds
Birds nesting in your barn can come with potential dangers. Some include:
- Bird droppings can carry certain fungi that can contaminate animal feed or crops. Excessive amounts can also corrode farm equipment.
- Animal feed shortages due to birds eating food that isn’t theirs.
- Wood damage from mud nests or other bird nesting forms.
- Parasites such as fleas, lice, mites and worms, may be harmful to farm animals or humans.
- Safety hazards such as block drains, gutters and damaged insulation, as well as electrical equipment malfunctions which could turn into a fire hazard.
Related: Where do all the barn swallows go in the winter?
How to Guard Against Barn Birds
Now that we see the dangers that lingering birds can cause, here are some ways to prevent them from harming your barn:
1. Alternative Habitats
Swallows take shelter in barns to protect their offspring during the colder months. To prevent them from taking over your barn this winter, create alternative habitats elsewhere on your property. Options can include:
- Birdhouses and nest platforms – traditional options
- Artificial nests – small, bowl-shaped pieces attached to a wall
- Barn-style birdhouses – larger structures that mimic the inside of a barn
Make sure you place these habitats away from busy doorways and close to a source of mud which the swallows will use to build their nests. By giving the birds another place to stay, they are more likely to avoid your barn.
Related: How to Repel Barn Swallows During the Cold Months
2. Set Up Blockades
Once swallows build their nests, they guard them fiercely and oftentimes chase people off. In order to prevent them from nesting in your barn, try blocking areas of potential nesting. These barriers can be:
- Bird netting
- Sheet metal
- Potted plants or hanging plants under the eaves of your barn
- Porcupine wire
- Reflective surfaces to scare off birds or make the space look occupied
Anything that can give the illusion that the space is taken by other birds is a great way to keep them from housing in your barn.
3. Trapping
Setting up live traps can be a safe way to catch a bird and release them far from your barn — but before you do this, check to ensure there isn’t a nest full of babies nearby that still need to be cared for.
There are different types of traps available depending on what type of bird you’re targeting. Some examples exclude a “bob” trap where the trap can be pushed inward, but can’t get out. Funnel traps are another common type of trap used for birds.
4. Sound Deterrents
Sound deterrents are an option that uses the bird’s natural instincts to scare them away from a particular area. Here are some examples of sounds you can broadcast in your barn:
- Ultrasonic sound waves
- Recorded bird distress calls
- Recorded predator calls and more
The good news for sound deterrents is that they are relatively low-maintenance once set up. The downside is that the noise can be annoying, and some birds can become tolerant to the sounds over time, reducing their effectiveness.
5. Liquid Bird Repellent
The most proactive way to scare away barn swallows is prevention. Rather than scaring them away when they arrive, liquid bird repellent sprays stop barn swallows from ever arriving. Simply by irritating a bird’s sense of taste and smell, a repellent can drive swallows away from your property.
Related: How To Protect Dairy Farms From Bird Pests
Don’t Make These Mistakes
- Leaving food out. Birds will naturally be attracted to food and end up in your barn as a result of food and water being left available and too easy to obtain.
- Allowing your barn to be easily accessible. Keep doors closed or hang plastic at entryways to make it difficult for birds to get in. Birds have short attention spans and will often fly away to other potential nesting places if they cannot get into your barn.
- Spraying liquid bird repellent at the wrong time. The best way to deter birds from barns is to spray a bird repellent BEFORE birds begin nesting.
- Harming birds. Be familiar with the laws in your area regarding bird control. Like many birds, the swallow is a federally protected species and the following bird control measures are illegal:
- Shooting at them
- Spraying nests with water
- Knocking down nests with any tool
- Indirectly causing death (by using toxic chemicals for example)
Your best bet is to prevent barn swallows from nesting in or around your barn altogether using bird control prevention methods. Avian Control offers some simple alternative bird control methods that are non-toxic.
Related: Federal Regulations: What You Need to Know About Getting Rid of Geese
Scare Away Barn Swallows For Good
Oftentimes, standard solutions are insufficient or just not ideal for keeping barn swallows away. It’s frustrating when you see these birds still finding a way into your barns, your fields or even your home.
In this case, a bird repellent spray can be the solution for you. Instead of fussing with methods, you’re unsure of, try Avian Migrate as a solution that is proven effective and long-lasting. Call 888.868.1982 to order or contact us for more information today!
Protecting Barns from Swallows, Owls and Other Winter Birds