Birds in The Slide Awnings | How to Eliminate

As an avid RV enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with unwelcome avian guests in my slide awnings. Birds, with their incessant chirping and messy nests, can quickly turn a peaceful camping trip into a nuisance. 

Over the years, I’ve learned various strategies to eliminate birds from slide awnings, what to do when they’re already nesting, how to prevent future invasions, and addressed some frequently asked questions on this topic. In this article, I’ll share my firsthand knowledge and insights to help you deal with this issue.

How Do I Eliminate Birds in the Slide Awnings

The first step in dealing with birds in your slide awnings is to identify the issue. Before you can effectively eliminate the problem, you need to know what kind of birds you’re dealing with and understand their nesting habits. Different bird species may require slightly different approaches. Some common avian culprits include sparrows, swallows, and pigeons.

A. Removal of Existing Nests

If you’ve noticed birds actively nesting in your slide awnings, it’s essential to address this issue humanely and carefully. Here are the steps to remove existing nests:

• Timing is Everything: It’s crucial to time your actions right. Attempt to remove nests only when you’re sure that there are no birds or eggs inside. Check for bird activity at various times of the day to ensure they’ve left the nest. Morning or evening is usually the safest time for removal.

• Safety Gear: Put on protective gear, including gloves and a mask, to avoid contact with bird droppings or any disease they may carry.

• Gently Remove the Nests: Carefully and gently remove the nests using your hands or a long stick. Ensure you’re not causing any damage to your slide awning in the process.

• Clean the Area: After removing the nests, clean the area to eliminate any traces of bird droppings, feathers, or nesting materials. This will help deter future nesting.

B. Deterrents to Keep Birds Away

Once you’ve removed the nests and cleaned the area, it’s time to deter birds from returning. Here are some effective methods:

• Visual Deterrents: Birds are often scared away by movement and flashes of light. Consider hanging reflective tape, CDs, or even owl decoys near your slide awnings. These create an illusion of predators, making birds uncomfortable.

• Physical Barriers: Bird spike strips and netting can physically prevent birds from landing or nesting on your slide awnings. They are humane and non-lethal methods.

• Ultrasonic Devices: Ultrasonic devices emit high-pitched sounds that are unpleasant to birds but generally inaudible to humans. These devices can create an uncomfortable environment for birds.

• Bird Repellent Sprays: Bird repellent sprays create a non-toxic, sticky surface that birds dislike landing on. Apply these sprays as a barrier to keep birds at bay.

C. What to Do When Birds Persist

If birds continue to be a problem despite your efforts to eliminate and deter them, consider the following additional steps:

• Change Location: If possible, park your RV in a location that is less attractive to birds. Avoid parking near trees or areas where birds are likely to nest.

• Keep Food Sources Away: Ensure that you’re not inadvertently attracting birds with open food sources, like trash bins or uncovered pet food.

• Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your slide awnings. Repair any holes or damage that may allow birds to access the area.

• Consult a Professional: If the problem persists or if you are dealing with protected bird species, it’s advisable to consult with a pest control or wildlife management professional. They can provide specialized solutions while adhering to local regulations.

How to Prevent Future Bird Invasions

Preventing future bird invasions is as important as dealing with current issues. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

Regular Cleaning: Consistently clean your slide awnings to remove any bird droppings, nests, or debris. Birds are attracted to familiar nesting sites, so maintaining a clean environment is essential.

Cover Openings: If there are gaps or open spaces where birds can enter your slide awnings, consider sealing them to prevent access.

Netting and Barriers: Install bird spike strips or netting as a preventive measure to make it difficult for birds to land or nest on your slide awnings.

Consistent Use of Deterrents: Continue to use visual deterrents, like reflective tape and ultrasonic devices, as a long-term strategy to keep birds away.

Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your slide awnings for signs of bird activity and address any issues promptly.

Awareness of Local Regulations: Be aware of any local or state regulations regarding the treatment of birds, especially if they are protected species. Always comply with these regulations.

Are there any risks associated with bird infestations in slide awnings?

Yes, there are risks. Bird droppings can contain bacteria and fungi that may pose health risks to humans. Additionally, the accumulation of nests and droppings can damage your slide awnings over time.

What if I want to attract birds to my RV site?

If you’re a bird enthusiast and want to attract birds to your RV site, consider setting up bird feeders, birdbaths, and nesting boxes away from your slide awnings. This way, you can enjoy birdwatching without inviting them into your awnings.

How do I know if I’m dealing with protected bird species?

To determine if you’re dealing with protected bird species, consult local wildlife authorities or bird identification guides. It’s essential to follow legal and ethical guidelines when addressing bird issues.

Will bird deterrents harm the birds?

The methods suggested in this article are non-lethal and designed to deter birds without causing them harm. The goal is to create an environment that makes it less appealing for birds to nest in your slide awnings.

Can I use chemical repellents to deter birds?

While there are chemical bird repellents available, it’s advisable to use non-toxic and environmentally friendly options to prevent harm to birds and to avoid contamination of the environment around your RV.

Wrap Up

Dealing with birds in your slide awnings can be a challenging but manageable issue. By identifying the problem, removing existing nests, using deterrents, and taking preventive measures, you can create a bird-free and enjoyable outdoor environment. Remember to approach the issue humanely and comply with local regulations when dealing with protected bird species.