Each spring the swallows return to North America to build their mud nests and have their babies. Unfortunately they like to use buildings, barns, homes and other areas like bridges and underpasses. The eaves of a home make the perfect place for a swallow to build its nest. They provide shelter and protection from predators.
Swallow Nesting Sites
Swallows like to build their nests on surfaces that are easy to "stick" their nesting material to, such as wood, stucco, masonry and concrete. They will choose a shady spot like under the eaves of a house, bridge or overpass, and other areas with right angles to the walls.
Damage Caused by Swallows
Swallows will nest in large colonies which can cause big problems for building managers and homeowners. Each year countless hours and dollars are spent cleaning up after the swallows. Not only are their droppings unsightly, but they can carry diseases that are harmful to humans and other animals. Eventually the nests will fall to the ground where there is a chance that the bugs, fleas, ticks and mites found in them can spread to animals such as dogs and cats.
How to Deter Pest Swallows
The best method for deterring swallows is exclusion. It must be made impossible for the swallows to build their nests. Here are several methods that can be used:
- Bird netting can be hung from the eave of a home down to the side of the wall creating a 45 degree angle. This will keep the swallow from getting into the favorable sheltered areas under the eaves of homes and buildings. The netting should be installed before the swallows arrive and may be taken down once they leave.
- Bird spikes can be installed where the wall meets the roof eave to keep the swallows from getting a foothold on the wall. This will keep them from being able to attach their nesting material.
- Slope panels can also be installed under the eaves of a home. They create a slippery surface that the birds cannot attach their mud nests to. These are usually PVC plastic or clear acrylic panels.
Important Information Regarding Swallows
In the United States, all swallows are classified as migratory insectivorous birds under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. They are also protected by state regulations. Once a swallow has begun to build its nest, it is too late to get rid of it. Any types of control methods should be done before the swallows return. This will help to guard against any potential fines for disturbing their nests or injuring birds.
Fran Prisco - Fran likes to run, bike, golf and do anything outdoors. She also enjoys reading, knitting and crocheting. She works as a freelance writer, ...
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