How To Keep Birds Out Of Arborvitae

How to keep birds out of arborvitae involves a combination of physical barriers, visual deterrents, and smart habitat changes.
 
Birds love arborvitae because these dense evergreens offer perfect shelter from weather and predators.
 
If you’ve been struggling to keep birds out of arborvitae in your yard, you’re not alone.
 
Many homeowners find that flocks of starlings, sparrows, or finches take over these trees and cause mess and damage.
 
In this post, we’ll explain why birds target arborvitae and share the best ways to keep birds out of arborvitae for good.
 
Let’s dive in and learn how to keep birds out of arborvitae with proven methods.
 

Understanding Why Birds Target Arborvitae

Before you can effectively keep birds out of arborvitae, you need to know what attracts them.
 
Arborvitae provides dense foliage that acts like a natural fortress.
 
Birds see these trees as safe roosting spots, nesting sites, and even food sources.
 
Here are the main reasons birds flock to arborvitae and why you need to act to keep birds out of arborvitae:
 

1. Shelter and Nesting

Arborvitae’s thick branches shield birds from wind, rain, and predators.
 
During cold months, birds huddle inside the foliage for warmth.
 
In spring, they build nests in the dense interior, out of reach of many threats.
 
This natural cover is why birds are so hard to discourage once they settle in.
 
To keep birds out of arborvitae, you must make those cozy spots less inviting.
 

2. Food Sources Nearby

Birds don’t just use arborvitae for shelter; they also eat insects found on the bark and leaves.
 
Some birds even nibble on the tender new growth or seeds inside the cones.
 
If your yard has feeders or berry bushes, arborvitae become a convenient rest stop.
 
Removing these food sources helps keep birds away from arborvitae over time.
 

3. Safe Roosting at Night

Large flocks of birds, especially starlings and blackbirds, roost communally in arborvitae.
 
These trees can hold dozens of birds overnight, creating noise and a lot of droppings.
 
The droppings are acidic and can damage the foliage and soil below.
 
That’s why it’s critical to learn how to keep birds out of arborvitae before they become a nightly nuisance.
 

Physical Barriers to Keep Birds Out of Arborvitae

One of the most reliable ways to keep birds out of arborvitae is blocking their access physically.
 
These methods don’t harm the birds, they just make the tree impossible to land on or enter.
 
Here are the top barrier techniques to keep birds away from arborvitae:
 

1. Bird Netting

Drape lightweight bird netting over the entire arborvitae during high-risk seasons.
 
The netting’s small mesh prevents birds from squeezing through to perch or nest.
 
Secure the netting tightly at the base so birds can’t sneak underneath.
 
Use plastic or UV-resistant netting to withstand weather and last multiple years.
 
This is one of the most effective physical methods to keep birds out of arborvitae.
 

2. Bird Spikes on Main Branches

If netting isn’t practical, install bird spikes on the strongest, thickest branches.
 
Spikes create an uneven landing surface that birds avoid.
 
They work well on the upper crown where birds often perch before entering the foliage.
 
Choose blunt-tipped plastic spikes to be safe for the tree and the birds.
 
Place them strategically to keep birds from settling on key branches.
 

3. Pruning to Remove Perches

Trim lower branches and thin the interior canopy to reduce dense hiding spots.
 
Birds prefer thick, tangled growth, so opening up the tree discourages them.
 
Prune in late winter or early spring before nesting season begins.
 
Be careful not to over‑prune, as arborvitae need their foliage for health.
 
A well‑maintained tree is less attractive and easier to keep birds out of arborvitae.
 

Visual and Auditory Deterrents for Keeping Birds Away from Arborvitae

Sometimes physical barriers aren’t enough, or you need a quick fix until you install netting.
 
Visual and sound deterrents can scare birds and train them to avoid your arborvitae.
 
These methods work best when you rotate them often, so birds don’t get used to them.
 
Try these popular deterrents to keep birds out of arborvitae:
 

1. Reflective Tape and Spinners

Hang strips of reflective tape or shiny Mylar ribbons from the branches.
 
The sunlight flashes and moves in the wind, startling birds.
 
You can also use old CDs, aluminum pie plates, or commercial spinners.
 
Place them at different heights around the arborvitae’s perimeter.
 
This simple trick helps keep birds away from arborvitae with minimal effort.
 

2. Decoy Predators

Set up a plastic owl, hawk, or snake near the arborvitae.
 
Move the decoy every few days so birds think it’s a real predator.
 
Birds quickly realize a stationary fake is harmless, so relocation is key.
 
Combine decoys with noise‑making devices for a stronger effect.
 
Decoys alone won’t fully keep birds out of arborvitae, but they help as part of a strategy.
 

3. Ultrasonic or Sound Devices

Solar‑powered ultrasonic emitters produce high‑frequency sounds that annoy birds.
 
These devices are silent to humans but deter birds from landing nearby.
 
Alternatively, use audible distress calls from a bird‑scare machine.
 
Place the device close to the arborvitae and adjust the settings seasonally.
 
Sound deterrents can effectively keep birds out of arborvitae without harming them.
 

Habitat Modifications to Discourage Birds from Arborvitae

Long‑term success in how to keep birds out of arborvitae depends on changing the environment.
 
If you eliminate what attracts birds, they’ll look elsewhere for shelter and food.
 
Here are several habitat tweaks that help keep birds away from arborvitae permanently:
 

1. Remove Bird Feeders Near Arborvitae

Bird feeders placed within 30 feet of arborvitae invite trouble.
 
Birds will feed at the feeder, then fly directly into the arborvitae to rest.
 
Move feeders to open areas far from trees, or remove them entirely during nesting season.
 
If you want to feed birds, choose feeders that catch all seeds and clean spills often.
 
This simple change alone can keep birds out of arborvitae in many cases.
 

2. Reduce Water Sources

Birdbaths, ponds, and dripping faucets attract birds like magnets.
 
If the water is close to arborvitae, birds will use the tree as a drying perch.
 
Relocate birdbaths to the center of the yard, away from dense shrubs.
 
Let sprinklers run during the day to make the area less predictable for birds.
 
Without reliable water, birds are less motivated to stay near your arborvitae.
 

3. Plant Alternative Shelter Trees

Consider adding other evergreens like spruce or pine that are less dense than arborvitae.
 
Birds may then choose those trees over your arborvitae for roosting.
 
This diversion tactic gives birds an option while you protect your arborvitae.
 
Mix in shrubs that birds like, such as holly or juniper, in a different part of the yard.
 
By providing alternatives, you can keep birds out of arborvitae without total exclusion.
 

So, How to Keep Birds Out of Arborvitae?

How to keep birds out of arborvitae is a challenge that requires a layered approach.
 
Physical barriers like netting and spikes give immediate results.
 
Visual and sound deterrents add extra protection when birds are persistent.
 
And habitat changes address the root causes, making your yard less attractive long term.
 
Start with the method that fits your situation and add others as needed.
 
With patience and consistency, you can successfully keep birds out of arborvitae and enjoy a cleaner, quieter landscape.