How To Get Rid Of Killdeer

How to Deter Killdeer from Your Property: A Humane Approach

Killdeer are charming, charismatic birds, but their presence on your property can sometimes be problematic. Their persistent, high-pitched calls and nesting habits can be disruptive. This guide focuses on humane methods to deter killdeer, minimizing stress for the birds and maximizing your peace of mind. We strongly discourage any methods that harm or injure these protected birds.

Understanding Killdeer Behavior

Before attempting to deter killdeer, it's crucial to understand their behavior. Killdeer are ground-nesting birds known for their clever camouflage and deceptive displays. They'll often feign injury to lure predators away from their nests, making them seem more vulnerable than they actually are. Their nesting season typically runs from spring to summer. Knowing this helps target your deterrents effectively.

Key Behaviors to Note:

• Nesting locations: Killdeer prefer open, sparsely vegetated areas like lawns, gravel driveways, and even rooftops.
• Breeding season: This is when they are most protective and vocal.
• Distraction displays: Be aware of their feigned injuries – these are a natural defense mechanism.

Humane Deterrent Strategies

The goal is to make your property less attractive to killdeer without causing them harm. Here are several humane methods you can employ:

1. Visual Deterrents:

• Scarecrows: Strategically placed scarecrows can startle killdeer and discourage them from nesting. Vary their appearance and location to maintain effectiveness.
• Shiny objects: Hanging reflective materials like ribbons, Mylar balloons (deflated), or aluminum foil strips can deter killdeer with their movement and brightness. These should be moved periodically to maintain their effectiveness.
• Predator decoys: Placing realistic-looking owl or hawk decoys near nesting areas might deter killdeer. Rotate their positions regularly.

2. Auditory Deterrents:

• Motion-activated sprinklers: These sprinklers startle killdeer with a sudden burst of water when triggered by movement. This is often effective, but ensure the spray isn't harmful to the birds.
• Ultrasonic devices: Some ultrasonic devices claim to repel birds. The effectiveness of these can vary depending on the device and the bird species.

3. Physical Barriers:

• Netting: While not ideal, netting can prevent killdeer from accessing specific areas, but ensure the netting is appropriate for the space and avoids harming the birds. Use it carefully and only if necessary.
• Covering nesting areas: If you discover a nest, temporarily covering the immediate area can discourage the birds from continuing to nest there. However, be mindful of removing the cover once the nesting period is over.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've tried various deterrents and the killdeer remain a persistent problem, consider contacting a wildlife removal specialist. They can provide more targeted solutions, but always prioritize humane and ethical methods.

Important Considerations:

• Patience: It may take time and experimentation to find the most effective deterrents for your specific situation.
• Consistency: Maintain your deterrent strategies consistently throughout the nesting season for best results.
• Legality: Always check your local and state regulations regarding bird control. Harming or killing killdeer is illegal in many areas.

By understanding killdeer behavior and employing humane deterrents, you can create a balance between enjoying your property and protecting these fascinating birds. Remember, the goal is coexistence, not conflict.