How to Remove Barn Sparrows

While it can be amusing to watch barn swallows in flight; what is not amusing is the damage their nesting and waste can cause to homes, humans and barns. Barn swallows prefer to nest near human activity and especially close to lights, as barn sparrows think this will keep their natural predators (such as crows) at bay. The Seattle Audubon Society website states "All swallows are protected under the law. You cannot disturb them once they lay their eggs in the nest," so it is best to take measures to remove the nest before the sparrows start laying eggs.

Things You'll Need

  • Dust mask
  • Ladder
  • Scraper
  • High gloss latex paint
  • Paint brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a ladder adjacent to the nest so that you can reach it.

    • 2

      Place the dust mask over your nose and mouth before attempting to remove the nest; barn sparrow droppings can cause illness such as histoplasmosis if inhaled.

    • 3

      Remove the complete barn sparrow nest from the nesting spot entirely.

    • 4

      Scrape the area clean of any sparrow waste or nesting material to discourage their return.

    • 5

      Paint the nesting area with a high gloss latex paint to discourage the sparrows from rebuilding their nest. The high gloss latex paint will make it difficult for the nest to stick to the area.