On 03/29/2011 03:59 PM, Roger Tonkin wrote:
Over the last few days, birds have decided to use the handles of the
back door and garage door as a roost/toilet stop, leaving mess on the
step. Handles are more or less horizontal brass effect ones. This has
never happened before in the 16+ years we've lived here.

Anyone any idea of how to deter them from stopping here, bearing in mind
that the doors are in frequent use. Not been able to spot the type of
bird, as they only seem to do it over night. Obviously I do not want to
scare them away from the garden completely.



Probably only temporary discouragement is needed, they'll then find
another stop. Try taking a small rubber mat (or piece of fabric) and
poking 3 or 4 inch long bits of chopsticks through, in such a way that
when the mat is draped over the handle the sticks are vertical. The
birds wont land on it, (nor will it hurt them), you'll be able to lift
it on and off for a week or so by which time they'll have changed habits.

Good luck,

-E