When people think of pests, they often picture insects like ants or termites. However, mud swallows (also known as barn swallows or cliff swallows) can also cause significant property damage. These birds create mud nests on exterior walls, under eaves, and in other sheltered areas, leading to staining, insect attraction, and structural issues.
A-1 Exterminators specializes in professional bird control solutions to protect homes and businesses from avian pests while ensuring humane and legally compliant removal. If you’re dealing with mud swallows on your property, here’s how to prevent, remove, and keep them from returning.
Identifying Mud Swallow Activity
Mud swallows return to the same nesting site yearly, making early intervention critical. They are small, fast-moving birds that build mud-based nests shaped like half-spheres, often clustered under eaves, ledges, or other overhangs.
Signs of Mud Swallow Nests
- Mud nests attached to exterior walls or ceilings
- Bird droppings and mud streaks staining siding, brick, or concrete
- Increased insect activity near nesting areas
- Frequent bird flight patterns in and out of specific spots
Since their nests harden over time, removal requires the right tools and cleaning techniques.
Legal Considerations: Understanding Swallow Protection Laws
Before taking action, it’s essential to know that mud swallows are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This means:
- Active nests (with eggs or hatchlings) cannot be removed until after the birds migrate.
- Destroying occupied nests is illegal and can result in fines.
- Preventative measures must be taken before nesting season to avoid conflicts with the law.
If you need legal, humane bird control assistance, A-1 Exterminators provides expert services throughout Northern Utah to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Preventing Mud Swallows from Nesting
Because swallows return to the same sites year after year, the best long-term strategy is to modify their nesting environment before they settle in.
1. Install Physical Barriers
Blocking access to nesting sites is one of the most effective deterrents.
- Bird Netting: Install tightly secured netting under eaves and overhangs to prevent birds from landing. This is highly effective when installed properly.
- Slant Boards or Metal Flashing: Installing smooth, slanted surfaces makes it difficult for swallows to attach nests.
- Bird Spikes: While commonly used for pigeons, properly positioned bird spikes can discourage swallows from perching.
2. Use Visual Deterrents
Swallows can be discouraged by visual stimuli they perceive as threats.
- Predator Decoys: Install realistic-looking hawk or owl decoys near common nesting areas. To maintain effectiveness, move the decoys every few days.
- Reflective Objects: Hang old CDs, small mirrors, or aluminum foil strips near potential nesting spots. The shifting light patterns can make the area unappealing.
3. Sound Deterrents
While some bird species are noise-sensitive, mud swallows often feel secure in man-made structures and may ignore common sound deterrents. However, ultrasonic bird-repellent systems can work in some cases.
4. Keep Surfaces Clean and Uninviting
Mud swallows need rough, stable surfaces to attach their nests. Keeping these areas clean and smooth reduces their ability to build.
- Regular Pressure Washing: Using a pressure washer to remove dirt, debris, and residual nest materials can discourage rebuilding. Many home improvement stores rent out pressure washers if you don’t own one.
- Apply Slick Finishes: Paint or treat surfaces with glossy or slick coatings that prevent mud from sticking.
Humane Removal & Protective Gear
If swallows already have nests in areas of your property, removal must be handled humanely to comply with legal protections. Only inactive nests (without eggs or hatchlings) can be removed.
1. Safety Precautions
Swallow nests often contain parasites, bacteria, and dried droppings that pose health risks. Wear:
- Rubber gloves
- Eye protection
- A face mask to avoid inhaling dust or contaminants
2. Removing the Nest
- Use a Hammer and Chisel: Carefully chip away hardened mud nests without damaging your property’s surface.
- Pressure Wash the Area: To remove residual mud, use a pressure washer at a safe setting that won’t harm siding or brick.
- Dispose of Nesting Materials Properly: Do not leave debris behind. It can attract insects and other birds.
3. Clean and Sanitize the Area
- Disinfect the Surface: To kill bacteria and parasites, use a mild bleach solution (⅓ cups bleach per gallon of water) or bird-safe cleaner.
- Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint: If necessary, repaint or seal surfaces to discourage future nesting.
Professional Bird Control Services in Northern Utah
For long-term protection against mud swallows, A-1 Exterminators offers comprehensive bird control solutions using Bird Barrier® products, including:
- StealthNet® bird netting for blocking nesting sites
- Physical deterrents like non-sharpened bird spikes and slant boards
- Customized exclusion strategies for homes and businesses
- Safe, legal nest removal services
Whether you need preventative measures or removal assistance, our team ensures compliance with bird protection laws while keeping your property free from unwanted nesting activity.
Mud swallows may be beneficial for insect control, but their nests can damage buildings, cause staining, and cause pest problems. By taking early preventative measures, you can legally and humanely keep swallows from nesting on your property. If swallows have already built nests, professional bird control is often the safest and most effective solution.
For expert bird control services in Salt Lake City and throughout Northern Utah, A-1 Exterminators is the trusted choice. Call (801) 968-3370 today to schedule an inspection, or contact us online to learn more about our comprehensive bird control services.
