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When I recently mentioned on my Instagram stories that we had birds trying to build nests at the upper roof area of our deck, I had tons of feedback. Many who had the same problem and needed suggestions and many others who shared what they have used and has worked for them. I love getting suggestions and tips from y’all!

I do first want to say that I love birds. However, I do not want the poop all over the deck that my children play on. Also, momma birds can be very protective and potentially aggressive if they feel their babies are threatened. I also have a small forest of trees in my backyard, so there are plenty of other places for them to build their nests.

Since I had so many requests for the suggestions, I decided to do a quick roundup of the most commonly suggested items.

These are in no particular order and I have not personally tried them all out for myself.

Plastic owl. Many suggested the owl, but I had equally as many who said it didn’t work for them as those that say it did. I also had some say to be sure to move the owl around periodically.

Fishing line. Depending on where you are trying to keep the birds away from… some had suggestions running fishing line along the railing so the birds couldn’t land.

Spikes. There are several different styles I have found. Some are long metal spikes, other are plastic. I think these would be a better option for places that little hands could not be reach. They can be installed on fences, railings, roofs, sheds, etc.

Reflective Tape.The tape can be hung from windows, siding, railings, decks, posts, garden fences, trees and more. The pattern on the tape produces bright reflections that will deter the birds.

Reflective spinners and discs. The spinners have a spiral design that will reflect the light to deter birds. The discs are double sided and have a hanging hook. These can also be used to prevent birds from hitting glass windows.

Plastic snakes. Many had also suggested plastic snakes to help keep the birds away. Some suggested putting in the garden beds also to help deter squirrels and protect garden beds.

Others had also suggested painting the ceiling of your porch a light blue color (commonly called “haint blue” )to help deter birds from nesting and insects from buzzing around. These are some popular “haint” blue colors. As always, I highly recommend you test out any colors on your home before making a final paint selection.

You can find all these items and a few more HERE:

If you have tried any of these, or have something else that has helped, I would love to hear about it. Leave a comment below.

I hope you’ll come back soon for more tips, home decor, DIY’s and all the in between.