Buzzards, also known as vultures, can become a significant nuisance when they decide to roost on your roof. Their presence not only creates an unsightly mess with their droppings but can also lead to roof damage over time. Given that buzzards are protected under federal law, it’s essential to use humane methods to discourage them from making your home their preferred perch.
In this blog post, we’ll explore strategies to help you get rid of buzzards on your roof effectively.
Why Buzzards Choose Your Roof
Buzzards, particularly turkey vultures, are scavengers that prefer high perches to survey their surroundings. Your roof might be an attractive spot for several reasons:
- Proximity to Food Sources: Buzzards are drawn to areas where they can easily find food, such as near roads with frequent animal roadkill or neighborhoods with poorly managed garbage.
- Thermal Heating: The warmth radiated from rooftops, especially in the morning, can attract buzzards looking to regulate their body temperature.
- Safety and Visibility: High perches offer safety from predators and an excellent vantage point for spotting food.
Legal Considerations: Buzzards Are Protected
Before implementing any deterrent methods, it’s crucial to note that buzzards are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
This law makes it illegal to harm, capture, or kill these birds without a permit. Therefore, all the methods suggested here are humane and legally compliant.
Steps to Deter Buzzards from Your Rood
So, let’s explore what you can do to remove buzzards from your roof with non-lethal and humane actions.
1. Remove Attractants
The most straightforward approach to deterring buzzards is to eliminate what attracts them:
- Clean Up Carrion: If there’s a food source nearby, such as a dead animal, remove it immediately. This might involve calling local animal control services to handle the situation.
- Secure Trash: Ensure all garbage is stored in sealed containers. Buzzards are less likely to stick around if they can’t easily find food.
- Patio and Barbecue Maintenance: Clean your barbecue area thoroughly after use, as the smell of meat can attract these birds.
2. Install Physical Barriers
Physical barriers are highly effective in preventing buzzards from landing and roosting on your roof:
- Bird Spikes: Installing bird spikes along the roof edges or other favorite perching spots can deter buzzards from landing. These spikes are not harmful but make it uncomfortable for the birds to roost.
- Netting: Bird netting can be used to block access to certain areas of your roof. Ensure the netting is installed tightly to prevent the birds from getting under it.
- Taut Wires: Installing a wire about 8 inches above the roof peak can prevent buzzards from landing. This method works by making it difficult for the birds to perch comfortably.
3. Employ Visual and Auditory Scare Tactics
Buzzards can be frightened away using visual and auditory deterrents that mimic their natural predators or create an uncomfortable environment:
- Predator Decoys: Place decoys of owls, hawks, or even buzzard effigies on your roof. The sight of a predator can be enough to scare the birds away.
- Reflective Objects: Hang reflective objects like old CDs or aluminum foil strips around the roof. The reflections and movement can confuse and deter the birds.
- Noise Devices: Loud noises can startle buzzards and make your property less appealing. Options include motion-activated alarms, propane cannons, or playing recordings of predator calls.
However, be mindful of local noise ordinances and neighbors when using these methods.
4. Use Water as a Deterrent
Buzzards dislike being sprayed with water, making motion-activated sprinklers an effective deterrent:
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These devices can be placed around the roof or garden. When the sensors detect movement, they release a jet of water, which will scare the birds away.
Over time, this consistent disturbance can encourage the buzzards to find a new nesting spot.
5. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
Finally, regular roof maintenance and monitoring can prevent future buzzard problems:
- Roof Inspections: Regularly check your roof for signs of buzzards or damage caused by them. Addressing minor issues early can prevent bigger problems down the line.
- Reapply Deterrents: Scare tactics and barriers may need to be refreshed periodically. Over time, birds may become accustomed to certain deterrents, so rotating strategies can be effective.
6. Seek Professional Assistance
If the problem persists despite your efforts, consider contacting a professional wildlife removal service.
They can offer specialized solutions, including safe and humane trapping and relocation of the buzzards. Professionals are also more equipped to handle larger infestations and can ensure that all legal requirements are met.
Read More: Best Ways to Handle a Rat Infestation
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it! With a mix of clever tricks and a bit of patience, you can show those buzzards the door (or, in this case, the sky).
Remember, it’s all about making your roof less inviting—kind of like telling them, “Sorry, no vacancies here!” Give these tips a try, and soon your roof will be buzzard-free and back to its peaceful self. Good luck!
