Expert: Roger Lederer - 11/27/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi Roger,
I have a problem with Crows that are really noisy all through the day (even at 0430). Someone said to get an Owl scarecrow from the hardware store to deter them, but can't buy them where I live. Any suggestions of what I could do to scare them away, I'm even considering cutting out the shape of an Owl to get some peace and quiet...would that do or can you offer any other alternatives?

ANSWER: Without knowing the exact circumstances of where you live and what the crows are doing and how many there are, I can't give you any specific advice. There are plastic owl and snake bird scarers you can buy. You can also hang strips of mylar or aluminum plates to blow in the wind. There is something attractive to the crows that brings them to your area. But this seems like it is probably a temporary problem so it may go away on its own.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Roger,
I live in Queensland Australia. There are about 4 or 5 crows that fly about aggressively all day. We back on to a park with lots of trees, and the most annoying aspect of their behaviour is the land on the roof of our House and thump around in the early hours (0430-0530...its our Summer time here) loudly calling to each other and even fighting. Hope that is a bit more background.
Does the snake bird scarer hang from a tree and flap in the wind?

Answer
There are rubber, plastic, blow up, cardboard and other types of snakes and owls and hawks that are used as bird scarers. Some hang in the wind, some have rotating heads, some have noisemakers inside. See http://www.birdbusters.com/garden_pest_control_birds.html for example. Best thing, I think, is to install something on your roof. Good luck.