How to Keep Birds Off of Porch Railings

Remove all pet food and avoid placing food within 25 to 50 feet of decks, porches and railings. Birds love pet food, especially larger species such as crows, blue jays and cardinals, which tend to be messier than other smaller birds.

Place bird feeders 25 to 50 feet from decks, porches and railings if possible. The farther the better if birds roosting on porches and furniture are problematic. Birds will use any nearby object as a perch to scope and determine the safety of their food source until they become familiar with it.

Avoid planting fruit trees or fruit-bearing plants near porches and garden furniture. Birds are attracted by both blooms and fruit and therefore will use garden furniture and porch railings when feeding.

Purchase a fake owl (available at most garden supply stores) and place it in a visible location, either on or within five feet of the deck, porch railings or garden area where birds are problematic. A fake owl is great as a bird deterrent near established fruit-bearing plants.

Place a fake toy snake on your deck. Birds will avoid areas inhabited by other animals that prey on them. If a fake snake is used, move it around occasionally.