It's a frustrating and messy sight: crows, gulls, or other birds have torn into your garbage bags, scattering trash across your yard. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also attract other pests. The good news is that you can stop this behavior humanely and effectively. Here’s how to reclaim your trash can.
The most critical step is to deny access. Birds are intelligent and persistent, so a simple lid often isn't enough. Invest in a trash can with a locking lid or secure the lid yourself. You can use a bungee cord, a sturdy strap, or even a child-proof lock to ensure it can't be easily knocked off or pried open. If your can is damaged, replace it with one that has a tight-fitting, durable lid.
Birds are often drawn to the smell of food. Reducing odors is a powerful deterrent. Always rinse out food containers, like jars and cans, before tossing them. For particularly smelly waste, such as meat packaging or fish scraps, consider freezing it until trash day. Using heavy-duty, scent-blocking garbage bags can also help contain odors.
Sometimes, the location of your trash can makes it an easy target. Move it to a less exposed area if possible. Placing it in a shaded spot under an eave or in a garage or shed is ideal. Birds prefer open areas where they can spot predators, so reducing their visibility and access points can make your trash can far less appealing.
You can also use physical and visual deterrents. Birds don't like unstable surfaces. Placing a few rubber snakes or fake owls on or near the can can scare them away, but remember to move them regularly so the birds don't get used to them. Hanging old CDs or reflective tape creates flashes of light that disorient and deter them. For persistent problems, consider installing bird spikes on the rim of the trash can or a nearby fence; these are harmless but prevent birds from landing comfortably.
Consistency is key. Birds are creatures of habit. If they've found a reliable food source in your trash, they will keep coming back. By implementing a combination of these strategies—securing the lid, managing odors, and using deterrents—you can break this cycle. A little effort will lead to a cleaner, more peaceful outdoor space, free from feathered intruders.