It's a common and frustrating sight: scattered garbage around your outdoor bin after birds have been scavenging. Not only is it messy, but it can also attract other pests. The good news is that you can solve this problem humanely and effectively. Here are seven proven strategies to stop birds from picking at your garbage.
1. Secure the Lid. This is your first line of defense. If your bin has a latch, use it. If not, you can improvise. A bungee cord stretched tightly over the lid is a simple and highly effective solution. For a more permanent fix, install a lock or a carabiner clip to keep the lid firmly shut, even if the bin is knocked over.
2. Eliminate the Food Scent. Birds have an excellent sense of smell and are drawn to food odors. Rinse out food containers, especially those that held meat, fish, or dairy, before throwing them away. You can also sprinkle a bit of baking soda at the bottom of your bin to neutralize odors.
3. Use Deterrents. Birds are wary of unexpected movements and reflections. Hang old CDs, reflective tape, or pinwheels near your trash bin. The flashing light and movement will often scare them away. Alternatively, a fake predator, like a plastic owl or snake, placed on or near the bin can be a strong visual deterrent, though you should move it regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
4. Adjust Placement. If possible, store your trash bins in a garage or shed until collection day. If that's not an option, try to place them in a shaded area. Birds are less likely to investigate bins that are not in direct sunlight, which can amplify food smells and make the bin a more attractive target.
5. Choose the Right Bin. When it's time to replace your trash can, opt for a wildlife-proof model. These are typically designed with locking mechanisms that are difficult for animals to open. A bin with a foot pedal and a self-closing lid is also a good choice, as it minimizes the time the lid is open.
6. Try Natural Repellents. There are scents that birds dislike. Placing cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil or citrus peels (like lemon or orange) in a mesh bag on top of the lid can act as a natural repellent. Remember to refresh these every few days.
7. Maintain a Clean Area. Immediately clean up any spilled garbage around the bin. A clean area signals to birds that this is not a reliable food source, encouraging them to look elsewhere.
By consistently applying one or more of these methods, you can win the battle against scavenging birds and maintain a cleaner, more sanitary outdoor space. It may take a little trial and error to find the perfect solution for your situation, but a bird-free trash bin is an achievable goal.