It's a common urban headache: you walk down the street, and there's trash scattered everywhere because birds have been feasting from the public bins. I've been there, and it's frustrating. The core of the problem isn't the birds themselves, but the design of the trash can. An open lid is an open invitation.
After considerable research and personal testing, I've found that the most effective solution is a trash can with a deterrent lid. Not all lidded bins are created equal. The best ones are designed specifically to outsmart our feathered foes.
The top contenders typically feature a closing mechanism that is too heavy or complex for birds to manipulate. Look for bins with a pedal-operated lid or a top that requires a downward push to open. These designs allow humans easy access while effectively blocking birds. Another excellent feature is a top-weighted lid that automatically closes shut after use. Bins with narrow, angled openings also prevent birds from landing and reaching inside.
For public spaces, enclosed cylindrical designs with a small, circular drop-hole at the top are incredibly effective. Birds can't get a foothold or see the contents, removing the incentive entirely. So, to finally solve your bird mess problem, skip the standard open bin and invest in a trash can with a smart, deterrent lid. Your clean sidewalk will thank you.