Many birds make their nests on porches, window ledges, or other areas used by people, and this sometimes creates conflict. People dislike the noise, mess, and possibility of parent birds attacking. The birds simply want to incubate and raise their young without humans interfering.
- If you find a nest with eggs or babies inside, wait until the nestlings are old enough to leave the nest. On average, this happens 2 to 3 weeks after hatching, with a few exceptions.
- Most bird species are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (S.C. 1994, c. 22), and it is illegal to remove the nest, the eggs, and the young.
- Before nesting season, or once the birds have left, remove the deserted nest and make the location unfavorable for nesting.
Discourage Nesting
Often, the best approach is prevention: discourage birds from building their nests in these places.
- Build surfaces on an angle, and reduce flat surfaces by placing pylons, wood stakes or other objects on them.
- String aluminum plates, strips of plastic or colored cloth, etc., along access points.
- Install vent caps and grate covers to prevent birds from nesting in dryer vents, stove vents, and other outlets from the house.
DO NOT enclose the vent or access point while babies are still inside. This will block off the mother, and the babies could starve to death. Not only is this illegal [Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (S.C. 1994, c. 22)], but leaving dead birds inside the house is highly unsanitary.
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