The short answer is to make the bin less rewarding and harder to open. I’d start with a simple lid upgrade: a self-closing lid or a latch that birds can’t flip open with their beaks. If your building can replace older bins, choose bird-resistant bins with weighted, self-closing lids. The goal is secure lids, not just closed ones—crows and gulls are clever and will work at a loose handle or a gap.
Then reduce overflow. Birds pull trash out because the bin is packed, smells like food, or has bags sitting on top. Empty urban trash bins more often, especially around lunch and evening, and ask neighbors not to stack bags beside or on top of the bin. Use sturdy bags and tie them tightly, and never leave loose food containers in an open can. A little cleaning helps too: hose out spills, wipe the rim, and pick up scraps around the base. If birds keep returning, try a bird-resistant latch, a heavier lid, or a bin with a smaller opening. Place bins in a well-lit spot if possible, and report broken lids to the building manager. Keep it humane—no poisons or sharp devices—and talk to neighbors so everyone uses the same system. Small, consistent steps usually keep birds out much better than one dramatic fix.