Birds, especially coastal birds, may be beautiful and fascinating
to observe from the water, but they can quickly become a nuisance when they
start perching or nesting on your boat. From leaving droppings that can damage
your paint and canvas to clogging up bilge areas with nesting material, birds
can create quite the mess and even pose maintenance problems. Fortunately,
there are a number of effective ways to deter birds from turning your Quintrex boat
into their new favourite hangout spot.
Why Birds Target Boats
Boats, especially those moored in marinas or left unattended
for long periods, provide an attractive place for birds to rest or nest. Open
decks, canvas covers, radars, and railings offer safe, elevated perches. If
food or fishing scraps are left behind, that’s an added incentive for birds to
return.
Use Bird Deterrents
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but using a
combination of deterrents often works best. Here are some of the most effective
bird repellents for boats:
- Bird Spikes: Plastic or stainless steel bird spikes can be
installed on common perching spots like radar arches, canvas frames, lights,
and railings. These make it uncomfortable or impossible for birds to land
without harming themselves.
- Bird Scarers: Visual deterrents such as fake birds of prey or
even reflective tape can scare off birds. Some boaters use items that create
movement and light flashes that make birds uneasy. However, birds can become
accustomed to stationary decoys, so it's helpful to move them around now and
then.
- Daddy Long Legs: This popular device features long, thin
wires that spin and wave in the wind, covering a large area of the deck or
canopy. It prevents birds from landing while being unobtrusive and easy to
install or remove when underway.
- Sound and Motion Device: Some electronic repellents emit
predator calls or ultrasonic sounds that deter birds. Motion-activated water
sprayers are another option for boats kept in slips or marinas, though these
are less practical for trailered boats.
Keep Your Boat Clean
Birds are more likely to return to boats when they’ve found
food or a sense of safety before. Clean up fish scraps, crumbs, and other attractants.
Regularly rinse off droppings to prevent them from drying and staining surfaces.
A clean boat is less inviting to unwanted guests.
Use Your Boat Cover Strategically
Using snug-fitting boat covers, particularly over open
cockpits and flybridges, helps block access. Make sure your covers don’t sag,
as these areas can collect water or create a quiet spot for birds to nest. A
taut canvas is much harder for birds to use. You can get them in marine boat stores.
Be Persistent
Bird control requires consistency. If you only use
deterrents occasionally, birds may return the moment you stop. Combine visual,
physical, and cleanliness tactics for long-term success.
While birds are part of the natural environment boaters
love, keeping them off your boat is essential for cleanliness, aesthetics, and
maintenance. With the right tools and a proactive approach, you can keep your
vessel bird-free and ready for your next trip on the water.