How do I keep robins from nesting on my porch?

Why robins build nests on porches

Robins often choose to build nests on porches for several reasons:

• Shelter – Porches provide an overhang that offers protection from rain and sun.
• Materials – Robins can easily gather mud and grass from nearby lawns to build their nests.
• Elevation – Being up off the ground helps protect eggs and baby birds from predators.
• Attachment points – Beams, railings, lights, and ceiling corners provide solid structures to anchor nests to.

While convenient for robins, porch nests can create messes and be a nuisance for homeowners. So it’s understandable to want to deter robins from nesting in these locations.

Humane ways to discourage robins from nesting on porches

Here are some effective but gentle ways to keep robins from building nests on your porch:

Block access points

Robins need open access to get in and out while building nests. Close up any gaps, holes, or openings greater than 1-2 inches that allow robins entry onto your porch. This includes blocking spaces between decorative latticework or railings.

Use deterrents

There are several safe physical deterrents that can make a porch less appealing for nest building:

• Plastic netting or mesh – Hang a layer of 1-2 inch plastic netting from the porch ceiling and outer railings. Robins dislike getting their feathers trapped in the netting.
• Metal bird spikes – Install non-toxic metal spikes designed to deter birds on ledges, railings, and ceiling corners.
• Scat mats – Place rough plastic mats or upside-down vinyl carpet runners on flat porch surfaces.
• Motion-activated sprinklers – Install a sprinkler that sprays a short burst of water when it detects movement.

Remove nest starts ASAP

If you notice robins trying to build a nest on the porch, remove any beginnings of nests right away. Robins are persistent, so you need to eliminate their work before they finish building.

Scare devices

Robins are wary birds, so sometimes simple scare tactics can convince them to move on:

• Shiny objects – Hang old CDs, foil strips, or reflective tape near nesting spots to unsettle robins.
• Sounds – Play bird distress calls or natural predator sounds like hawks to deter robins.
• Scarecrow – Place a fake owl statue or realistic plastic snake on your porch to frighten robins.

When to get help with problem robins

In most cases, persistent use of humane nest deterrents will eventually convince robins to build elsewhere. But some extra stubborn birds may not get the message. If robins won’t give up on nesting on your porch despite your efforts, it’s time to call a professional.

A wildlife control expert can assess your property, identify exactly how robins are accessing your porch, and recommend commercial-grade deterrents or exclusion solutions to stop the problem once and for all. This may include:

• Installing robin-proof netting or slope barriers
• Applying non-toxicbird repellent gel
• Using electronic sonic devices
• Removing nests and eggs safely and legally

Though a last resort, calling in a wildlife specialist ensures the issue is resolved humanely while allowing the robins to simply nest elsewhere.

When robins can nest on a porch

Sometimes having robins nest on your porch isn’t a problem to be solved but rather a welcome bit of nature to enjoy.

If the mess and activity of a robin nesting on your porch doesn’t bother you, then it may be fine to simply let them be. The fledglings typically leave the nest after 2-3 weeks.

To peacefully coexist:

• Watch nest activity from a distance to avoid disturbing the parents.
• Protect eggs and young from predators by blocking off access.
• Place a tarp or cover below the nest to catch any droppings.
• Wait until the nest is empty before doing any porch cleaning.

Enjoy observing the wonder of nature on your porch. Just be prepared for the possibility of more nests in the future once the robins find it a safe spot!

Conclusion

Robins seeking to build nests on porches is a common occurrence due to the shelter and convenience porches provide. Thankfully, there are several effective yet gentle ways to deter robins without harming them. A combination of access denial, physical nest deterrents, scare tactics, and prompt nest removal can convince robins to move on. For severe cases, calling a professional may be needed. If you don’t mind the mess, you can also opt to simply let the robins nest on your porch undisturbed. With some careful wildlife management, you can reach the right balance for humanely coexisting with nature.