How To Keep Birds Off Your Pergola (and Avoid The Mess)

by Derrick | Last Updated: March 27, 2022

If you have a pergola in your backyard, there’s a good chance you’ve also had to deal with unwanted birds. This can be a real annoyance, as they can make a mess and even damage your property. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to keep birds off of your pergola. Read on to learn more!

Keeping birds off of your pergola is a matter of following the pest control mantra of identifying the birds, deterring the birds and worst-case eliminating the birds.

What Are The Main Problems Associated With Birds Landing On Your Pergola?

The main problems associated with birds landing on your pergola are that they can damage the structure and that they can also leave behind droppings.

Birds can scratch and peck at wood, fabric, and other materials, causing deterioration and unsightly marks.

In addition, their droppings can stain surfaces and promote the growth of mold and mildew. While many people enjoy the birds it is important to be aware of the potential damage that they can cause.

If you are concerned about the condition of your pergola, there are a few things that you can do to deter the birds (read on to find out more).

Damage To Your Pergola

Birds can cause significant damage to pergolas, especially if they roost in large numbers. Their droppings can stain and discolor the wood, and their claws can scratch and gouge the surface.

In addition, birds can also introduce parasites and pathogens into and around the structure, which can put both humans and animals at risk for diseases.

Damage To Your Patio Furniture

Bird droppings can be damaging to patio furniture. The acidic nature of bird droppings can eat away at the finish on patio furniture, causing it to become dull and faded. In addition, bird droppings can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can discolor and weaken patio furniture. To prevent bird droppings from damaging your patio furniture, regularly sweep the area and remove any droppings that you find. You may also want to consider covering your patio furniture when it is not in use. By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your patio furniture looking its best for years to come.

Damage To Your Home and Belongings

Damage To Cars

If your driveway is near your pergola and birds are left to nest in and around the pergola, it can be damaging to your cars.  Bird poop can contain high levels of acidity or alkalinity, depending on the bird’s diet. When bird poop comes into contact with car paint, it can cause damage to the finish. The bird poop can etch into the paint, causing a dull appearance.

To remove bird poop from your car, it is important to act quickly.  If you are able to, rinse the poop off before it dries.  If the bird poop has dried it is best to wash the car, using a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe away the bird poop. 

Damage To Your House

Bird poop can be damaging to your house for several reasons. The first is that bird poop is acidic, and over time it can eat away at paint and other finishes or damage your vinyl siding. This can eventually lead to structural damage as well. 

Finally, bird poop can act as a food source for mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for you and your family. If you have bird poop on your house, it’s important to clean it up as soon as possible to minimize the damage.

Deterring Birds From Your Pergola

It is important to take steps to deter birds from roosting on pergolas. Some simple deterrents include installing bird spikes or netting or placing plastic owls or other scarecrows in the area. 

Bird Spikes

Bird spikes are a type of bird control device that is typically used to deter birds from roosting or nesting on ledges, signs, roofs, and other flat surfaces. The spikes are usually made of metal or plastic and are installed in a row along the surface. The spikes prevent birds from landing or perching by creating an uneven surface that is uncomfortable for their feet. In some cases, the spikes may also be electrified, which can deter birds even further. Although bird spikes are an effective way to control bird populations, they can also be harmful to birds if not used correctly. If you are considering using bird spikes, it is important to consult with a professional to ensure that they will be effective and safe for the target area.

Bird Netting

Bird netting is a type of netting that is used to keep birds away from areas where they are not wanted. This can include gardens, fruit trees, and other areas where birds may be a nuisance. Bird netting is usually made from a lightweight material that is easy to set up and take down.

If your structure, such as a pergola, has recessed places under the roof where birds can roost or nest, you can cover this area with bird netting so they do not have access to the area, thus causing them to avoid the area all together. 

It is also important to ensure that the bird netting you choose is made from a durable material that will last long enough to provide effective protection. When properly installed, bird netting can be an effective way to keep birds away from your property.

Physical Deterrents – Pinwheels and Fake Predators

Pinwheels are a common sight in many gardens and yards, but their colorful spirals can also serve an important purpose: bird control. By attaching pinwheels to areas where birds are a nuisance, such as decks and patios, the spinning blades will help to keep them away. The pinwheels can be placed either directly on the ground or atop stakes, depending on the desired effect. In addition to being an effective way to deter birds, pinwheels can also add a touch of whimsy to any outdoor space. So if you’re looking for a creative way to keep birds at bay, consider using pinwheels.

Fake predators such as plastic owls or other birds of prey are a popular method of bird control. They are inexpensive, easy to use, and can be placed just about anywhere. Plastic owls work by creating a visual deterrent that makes birds feel like they are being watched by a predator.

This makes them feel unsafe and encourages them to stay away from the area. Plastic owls are most effective when used in combination with other bird control methods, such as netting or scarecrows.

However, they can also be used on their own to deter birds from gardens, farms, and other areas where they are not welcome.

Final Thoughts

Controlling birds and trying to keep them away from your backyard pergola is no easy task, any one method often doesn’t work but if you combine methods the success rate greatly improves.