Bird Control for Trees

The most effective method to keeping bird out of trees is bird netting, with alternative options using repellents, visual deterrents and sound deterrents. Netting will physically prevent birds from nesting, perching and attacking fruit baring trees. Bird Repellents and deterrents can be used to discourage birds from trees that are too large to fully net off. 

Before we go into detail, it is very important to understand what attracts birds. First, most species are drawn to trees for protection from weather and predatory birds. Trees allow birds too scout for predatory threats while remaining safeguarded. For this reason, small bird are drawn to nest on branches with tight compact spacing.  Second, birds are attracted to trees that produce fruit. These two characteristics make trees the ideal natural habitat for birds.   

Although not as effective as netting, these alternative bird control methods will drastically lower the bird population around your trees. For maximum effect, we recommend incorporating more than one of the following bird control products for trees. 

Deterrents for Small Fruit Trees

Smaller fruit trees should always be netted when possible. The larger the tree becomes the larger the net required becomes and the more difficult it is to manage. Small trees baring fruit are prime targets for birds. This why it is important to wrap garden netting around fruit trees until the trees are too large to continue with netting. 

3/4” Garden Netting 

• Ultra-lightweight mesh allows sun, air and water to pass through for healthy trees
• All-Purpose 3/4" Mesh size stops all bird species from attacking fruit and shrubs
• Durable UV stabilized polypropylene net is made for all weather conditions
• Available in 14’ x 100’ and 14” x 200’ sizes

Bird Repellents for Trees

Bird Repellents utilize the active ingredient Methyl Anthranilate (MA), a grape seed extract, to repel birds from the area. Avian Block Repellent Pouches contain MA in an easy to hang pouch. These pouches can be hung across trees to keep birds out. Avian Block Pouches are one of the easiest bird repellent products available, requiring little to no experience. It is as simple as hanging the pouch from a branch. 

Avian Block Pouches

• Works on All Bird Species; small, medium, and large
• One pouch covers a 10’ x 10’ x 10’ area (1000 cubic feet)
• Hang pouches 6’ – 10’ apart
• Fast, easy, and long lasting effects (replace pouches every 3 months)

Visual Deterrents for Trees

Visual deterrents are one of the most commonly used deterrents for trees. Visual deterrents are inexpensive, easy to deploy in large areas, and fast acting. Items such as Holographic Flash Tape come in rolls of 50’ or 150’, allowing large areas to be covered in  little to no time. Flash tape is made from a highly reflective mylar film material. Strips of Flash Tape can be tied to branches to mimic the movement of predatory animals, causing birds to flee the area. 

Holographic Flash Tape 

• Simple, cost-effective, and quick to deter birds from trees
• Easy to Install; cut flash tape in 2’ – 3’ strips and tie to branches
• Strips wave and move in the wind
• Non-sticky; 150’ rolls are 2-inches wide

Scare Eye Diverters 

• Diverters are tear drop shaped with predator eye print
• Iridescent reflective foil scares birds away from trees
• Made from durable plastic for outdoor use
• Each pack contains 5 scare diverters

Sound Deterrents for Trees

Sound deterrents are used to scare birds our of away from trees using audible bird recordings. The Bird Chase Super Sonic uses prerecorded bird distress calls from over 24 recorded species to deter pest birds. The unit covers up to an acre with the ability to add up to 4 additional speakers. These recordings are audible to people, sounding just like natural bird calls. The Bird Chase Super Sonic is a direct charging unit requiring a 110-120v outlet. 

Bird Chase Super Sonic

• Stops Pigeons, crows, seagulls, woodpeckers, starlings, grackles, sparrows, geese
• Internal Speaker covers up to 1 acre; add up to 4 additional speakers
• Weatherproof design
• Power Adapter has 20-ft of cord

Professional Recommendations

If you are unsure of which bird deterrents to use for your tree, please give our Bird Control Experts a call at 1-800-392-6915. Our team of experts are ready to identify the problem and help find the best possible solution for your trees.