Effective Ways To Handle Bird Nest Under A Car Hood
It’s very common for birds to build nests under eaves, awnings, and on porches. But sometimes, they build their nests under car hoods, and it’s especially true for cars that aren’t often used.
Birds find the area under the car hood protected from weather and predators. Interestingly, many bird species can build a nest overnight. And they’re even more likely to build a nest if your car is parked in a shed or a barn.
It can be a tough situation, and the best way to avoid it is to prevent birds from doing so in the first place. Let’s discuss how to prevent birds from nesting under a car hood and how to remove a nest if you find one.
How to Prevent Birds from Nesting Under A Car Hood?
Consider using the following method to discourage birds from building a nest under the hood of your car.
Check Your Car Frequently
Checking your car frequently is the easiest and most obvious way to ensure that birds don’t build a nest under your car hood. It’s important to note that a nest under a car hood can cause a fire while starting the vehicle’s engine.
If you live in a rural place that hosts many birds and you don’t need to use your car frequently, consider checking under your car’s hood daily. If you see any signs of the nest or find hay, consider it a red signal and remove the nest material immediately.
It won’t take more than a couple of minutes to examine your car. But it will keep you from the hassle of dealing with a nest under your car’s hood.
Use Car Covers
Using a car cover is probably the most effective way to prevent birds from nesting under your vehicle’s hood. This method is perfect if you plan to let your car sit for a while without driving it. Not only will it dissuade all types of birds from nesting, but it’ll also protect the surface and paint job of your car.
Birds won’t find any way to get in. And using a shiny silver cover is even better as shiny things deter birds. Make a habit of using a car cover once you have parked your vehicle for the night, or if you’re parking your car for an extended time.
Use Predator Decoys
Using predator decoys is another excellent way to keep birds from approaching your car. You can buy a hawk, owl, snake, or cat decoys and put it on your car’s hood. It’ll scare away the birds, and they won’t come near your vehicle.
It’s important to change the direction and place of the decoy every few days to make sure that birds don’t get used to it. You can easily find these products online, and they’re also very affordable.
Place Sound Emitter Inside Your Car
Using a sound emitter is a subtle method to keep birds from nesting under your car hood. Many small sound emitters are available that run on a battery and make a noise to scare the birds away. You can safely lock these products inside your car.
This method really comes in handy if you need to park your car somewhere for a longer period of time. The only downside of this method is that most sound emitters are pretty expensive.
Use Strong Scents
You can use special sprayers such as Bonide Ready to Use Repellent on your entire car. However, soaking small cotton pieces in such products and placing them on the spots where birds usually like to nest will be enough. Birds don’t like the smell of these scents and fly away from the source.
How to Remove A Bird Nest from Under A Car Hood
If you find some hay or an unfinished nest, you can simply pick it up and throw it away. The birds will find a new spot to build a nest. After removing the nest material, ensure that you get rid of all debris to ensure safety.
On the other hand, removing an active bird nest from under a car hood is not recommended, especially if it has eggs or hatchlings. Try to move it carefully and place it on a nearby shelf or any other place.
However, you can remove a nest after the nesting season. Don’t forget to wear a face mask and latex gloves while removing the nest. The best method is to contact a local wildlife authority to get professional help to remove a bird nest from under your car hood.
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