How to Keep Birds From Building in Your House Overhang

Birds, much like people, set up homes in an area that seems cozy and safe. They'll often build nests in places that are partially hidden and protected from the elements on several sides, such as a ledge or under an overhang. Architectural elements found beneath overhangs, such as columns, often create ideal foundations for a bird's nest — ideal for the birds, that is, but not for you. Bird nests on your home can create a bit of a mess and are especially a problem if they're near an outdoor area you frequently use, such as the front porch. A few preventive techniques can help keep the birds away.

Caution tape or shiny polyester film
Scissors
Plastic netting
Thumbtacks
Angled block

Instructions

- 1
  Cut caution tape or shiny polyester film into strips a foot or two long. Cut six to eight strips, or more if the bird-friendly area is rather large.
- 2
  Thumbtack one end of each caution tape or polyester film strip beneath the overhang so that the strips hang down onto the flat area that potentially attracts nest builders. Tack the material in such a way it can move with the breeze. Cover the entire nesting area with hanging strips, making the area less attractive to birds.
- 3
  Cover the potential nesting area with plastic netting. Cover the entire area so that birds cannot land on any ledges or get behind the netting.
- 4
  Place an angled wood block atop any ledges where netting isn't an option. A steep angle covering all the previously flat areas will make those areas less attractive to nest-building birds.

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