How to Get Rid of Plover Birds?

Plover birds can be a real nuisance when they decide to settle in your backyard or favorite beach spot. At first glance, they may seem harmless—small, cute, and full of character. But when these little birds start nesting in places where they’re not wanted, things can quickly become tricky.

I remember the first time I encountered plovers on a quiet beach. Their distinct calls and persistent behavior were intriguing at first, but when they started nesting dangerously close to pathways, I realized they could be more trouble than I expected.

If you’re dealing with plovers in your area and want to know how to keep them from overstaying their welcome, this guide will walk you through some simple steps to handle the situation.

Who Are the Plover Birds?

Plover birds are part of the Charadriidae family and are found in various regions around the world, typically in coastal areas, fields, and sometimes even urban spaces. Their distinctive appearance—small body, short legs, and characteristic calls—makes them easy to identify. There are several species of plovers, but the most common ones that tend to cause issues are the killdeer plovers and lesser and greater plovers.

These birds are known for their high-pitched calls and their tendency to nest on the ground. Their nests are often made in sandy or gravelly areas, which makes places like beaches, parks, and even golf courses ideal for them. While they are a protected species in many regions, their tendency to create nests in busy, human-occupied areas can lead to conflicts.

Also read: What Do Curlew Birds Eat?

Why Are Plover Birds a Problem?

At first glance, plovers might seem harmless, but when they nest in areas where people frequent, problems can arise. Here are some of the most common issues associated with plovers:

1. Nesting in high-traffic areas: Plover birds often choose areas like golf courses, sports fields, and beaches to nest. This can lead to significant disruption in these areas, especially if their nests are located near popular walking paths or recreational spaces.
2. Aggressive behavior: When plovers are nesting, they can become quite territorial. They may aggressively defend their nests, swooping down at people or animals that come too close. This can be startling or even dangerous, especially for children or pets.
3. Health risks: Plovers may sometimes carry parasites or diseases, and their droppings can pose a health risk if they accumulate in certain areas, such as playgrounds or recreational spaces. In areas with high bird populations, the presence of droppings can contribute to an unsanitary environment.
4. Noise: Plovers are known for their loud, high-pitched calls. While some people may find these calls charming, they can be disruptive if there is a large population of them in a single area.

Also read: How to Make a Bird Feeder？

How to Get Rid of Plover Birds: Solutions and Tips

As much as I enjoy observing wildlife, sometimes getting rid of plover birds becomes necessary, especially when their nesting interferes with daily activities. Here’s a practical guide on how to deal with plover birds and encourage them to move to a more suitable habitat.

1. Prevent nesting areas

One of the most effective ways to deal with plover birds is to prevent them from nesting in the first place. If you’re aware of the areas where they typically like to nest, here are a few strategies to deter them:

• Fencing and barriers: If possible, install a barrier around areas like golf courses, sports fields, or beaches to prevent plovers from nesting in these places. Fences or nets can be used to block access to nesting grounds, especially if the area is in an open or flat space where the birds prefer to build their nests.
• Nesting site disruption: If plovers have already chosen a location to nest, consider disrupting the area. Removing small pebbles or sand can make it difficult for them to build their nests. It’s important to do this early in the season before eggs are laid. However, be mindful that plovers are protected in many areas, so it’s best to check local regulations before disturbing their nests.

2. Use bird deterrents

If preventing nesting doesn’t work or if you need to handle an existing plover issue, bird deterrents can be a helpful tool. These are some of the most commonly used and effective deterrents:

• Visual deterrents: Plover birds are often frightened by certain visual stimuli. Using items like reflective tape, scare-eye balloons, or fake predators (such as owl decoys or hawk silhouettes) can help discourage them from staying in an area. Hanging shiny objects or aluminum foil strips can also make the environment feel less safe for the birds.
• Noise deterrents: Some sounds, like those made by predator calls or ultrasonic devices, can make the area less appealing to plovers. These sound deterrents create an environment that feels threatening to birds, encouraging them to fly away.
• Predator decoys: As I’ve mentioned before, decoys of predators such as owls or hawks can be very effective. These visual cues can make plovers feel threatened and encourage them to move away. The key to success with decoys is to move them around regularly, as plovers can become accustomed to stationary models.

3. Remove food and shelter

Plover birds are often attracted to areas that provide both food and shelter. By eliminating these attractants, you can make your space less appealing to them. Here are some tips:

• Food source removal: Ensure that there are no food scraps, particularly in coastal areas or parks where plovers might forage for insects or small invertebrates. Keeping the area clean and free of potential food sources will reduce the attractiveness of the space for plovers.
• Shelter elimination: Clear any dense vegetation or tall grass that might provide shelter or cover for plover birds. This will make the area less suitable for nesting. Similarly, removing piles of debris, rocks, or sand will eliminate potential nesting sites.

4. Consider relocation (with permission)

In some cases, it might be necessary to relocate plover birds, especially if they are nesting in a location where they pose a significant threat to public safety. However, this should be done only with professional help and the proper permits. It’s crucial to ensure that the relocation doesn’t violate any local wildlife protection laws.

Before attempting any relocation efforts, consult with local wildlife authorities or pest control experts to discuss the most humane and legal approach. Often, these professionals can assist in moving the birds to a safer, more suitable location.

5. Consult wildlife experts

Finally, if plovers continue to be a problem despite your best efforts, or if you’re unsure of the best course of action, it’s wise to reach out to wildlife experts or pest control professionals. These specialists can provide advice on how to deal with the birds safely and effectively. They can also help with identifying potential nests, determining the best time to intervene, and offering solutions that comply with local laws and regulations.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with plover birds can be tricky, especially if they have chosen a spot to nest in a location that’s not ideal for humans. However, with the right knowledge and tools, it’s possible to encourage these birds to relocate and prevent them from causing damage or disturbances. From preventing nesting areas to using visual and sound deterrents, there are many strategies to try.

Above all, remember that plovers are a protected species in many regions. If they are causing problems in your area, make sure to take humane, legal steps to handle the situation. Sometimes, patience and professional help are the best solutions for ensuring both the birds’ safety and your peace of mind.

By understanding their behavior, identifying their needs, and taking appropriate steps, it’s possible to resolve the issue without causing harm to these fascinating creatures.