Expert: Roger Lederer - 3/15/2009

Question
Thanks for taking my question.In the spring I have robins
who are repeat offenders that scratch my new car by trying to run up the doors. Also,they perch on my mirrors and "poop" down the sides of my car! Lastly, what is it?, isolated? How do I STOP IT?? or reduce the damage and frustration??
Thank You for your time and expertise!
Ron in New Jersey.

Answer
Cardinals, robins, and many other birds are territorial and when they establish territories in the spring they become aggressive and chase off intruders. Unfortunately, they don't distinguish between their own reflection in a window, a car window, a rear view mirror,etc. and try to chase that off. One solution to the problem is to eliminate the reflection. Misting the window or mirror with a very weak detergent or soda solution will eliminate the reflection but will also impair visibility for you.  Hanging ornaments such as wind chimes, wind socks, and mylar strips will help.
But your best bet is to garage the car or use a car cover.
The behavior will stop when nesting begins.