As a trampoline owner and father of two energetic kids, I often find my trampoline covered in bird droppings. After dealing with this nuisance for years, I have discovered proven techniques to prevent birds from pooping on my trampoline.
To save your time in short:
To prevent bird poop, install visual deterrents like owl decoys or flashing tapes along the net top. Physical barriers like overhead netting or prickle strips also stop birds from landing. Regular cleaning and disinfecting removes any droppings that do occur, keeping kids healthy. Implementing effective bird deterrents and cleaning regimens keeps trampolines poop-free.
In this comprehensive guide, I will share how to stop birds pooping on a trampoline using deterrents, covers, and proper cleaning methods.
Why Do Birds Poop on Trampolines?
Birds Tend to Flock to Open Spaces
Birds are naturally drawn to open spaces that provide good visibility, such as patches of lawn, fields, or trampoline mats. The open space allows birds to easily spot potential threats. A backyard trampoline often becomes a prime bird hangout spot.
Trampoline Nets Offer Ideal Perching Spots
Birds like to perch on elevated surfaces before and after flying. The trampoline’s safety net offers numerous perching spots all around the perimeter. Once perched, birds frequently relieve themselves, leading to poop cascading down the nets.
How Bird Poop Can Be Harmful?
Droppings Contain Hazardous Parasites and Bacteria
Bird poop contains nasty bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter, and more. It also harbors dangerous parasites and fungi like Histoplasma capsulatum. Exposure can lead to serious gastrointestinal illness or respiratory infections.
Kids Are Especially Vulnerable
Children who play on a poop-covered trampoline are particularly susceptible to becoming sick from the bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Their immune systems aren’t as developed as adults. It’s critical to keep the trampoline clean and poop-free.
Poop Odors Linger
The smell from accumulated bird droppings is pungent and annoying. The odor permeates fabric and lingers for a long time, even after cleaning. Preventing poop buildup is better than dealing with nasty smells later.
How to Deter Birds from Pooping on a Trampoline?
1. Use Visual Deterrents
Visual deterrents like decoys, flash tape, and holographic ribbons can scare birds away. The unpredictable movement and flashes of light startle birds and make them uneasy about landing.
2. Hang Owl Decoys
Plastic owl decoys are very effective for scaring away pest birds. Hang a large owl decoy on a pole near the trampoline. Choose one with head rotation and large eyes to look realistic. The owl’s menacing gaze will frighten birds from landing.
3. Install Flashing Repellent Tape
Reflective flashing tapes are another good visual repellent for keeping birds away. The flashes of light disturb birds as the strips blow in the wind. Install flashing tape along the top edge of the net. Red and silver colors work best.
4. Attach Holographic Ribbons
Holographic ribbons reflect rainbow colors as they blow in the breeze. Birds don’t like landing near these unpredictable streaming ribbons. Attach a perimeter of holographic ribbons to the top of the net poles using cable ties.
5. Set Up Scary Decorations
Scary bird deterrents like snakes, spiders, evil eyes, and chomping predators can repel birds. Place some around the trampoline area for maximum effect. The frightening creatures will make birds too uneasy to come near.
6. Use Auditory Deterrents
Annoying sounds and noises will quickly drive away visiting birds. Wireless speakers and motion-activated devices work well to irritate birds and train them to avoid the area.
7. Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Motion-activated sprinklers detect bird movement and shoot out quick bursts of water. They are very effective for scaring birds away from yards and gardens. Position a sprinkler near the trampoline to startle birds when they fly near. The unpredictable spray will deter birds from landing.
8. Play Distress Calls and Predator Sounds
Hook up a wireless Bluetooth speaker to your phone. Download bird distress calls and predator sounds like hawks, cats, snakes, etc. Playing these alarming noises will quickly scare birds away from the yard and trampoline. Use a motion sensor to trigger sounds when birds are detected.
9. Use Physical Barriers
Physical barriers like nets, prickle strips, and wire grids make it impossible for birds to land on the trampoline. Installing barriers across the top of the net prevents perching while still allowing kids to jump freely.
10. Install Overhead Bird Netting
Bird netting installed above the trampoline forms a protective canopy that prevents birds from flying directly over the mat. Drape the netting from poles secured into the ground around the trampoline perimeter. Slope the netting outward so poop rolls off the sides.
11. Attach Prickle Strips
Plastic prickle strips have sharp, closely spaced spikes that prohibit birds from landing. They cause discomfort but will not harm birds. Adhere prickle strips along the top edge of the trampoline enclosure to prevent birds from perching on the net rim.
12. Create a Wire Grid
Crisscross thin steel wire or fishing line across the top of the net about 2 inches above it. Spacing the grid wires 2 inches apart prevents birds from landing while allowing rain to pass through. The grid wires feel unstable under birds’ feet, deterring landing.
13. Try Natural Bird Repellents
Natural scents and substances can also help repel nuisance birds from the yard and trampoline area. Use repellent sprays, granules, or aromas to create an unpleasant environment that deters birds.
14. Squirrel Away Granules
These granules contain white pepper, black pepper, and piperine extracts. Sprinkle them around the trampoline perimeter. The spicy scent irritates birds’ nasal passages and repels them from the area. Reapply after rain or watering.
15. Repel Away Spray
This natural mint and cinnamon spray makes surfaces uncomfortable for birds to land on. Spray it along the top edge of the trampoline net and poles. Reapply weekly for continued effectiveness. The strong aroma overwhelms birds’ senses.
16. Use Methyl Anthranilate
Methyl anthranilate is a grape flavoring that birds can’t stand. Dissolve it in water and spray over the trampoline and surrounding area. Birds will avoid anywhere contaminated with the grape scent. Reapply after rain or watering.
17. Try Garlic Juice
Crush garlic cloves and steep them in water overnight. Strain and dilute the garlic juice with more water. Spray the garlic mixture around the trampoline to create an intense odor that naturally repels birds. Reapply weekly.
How to Keep Birds From Roosting Nearby?
Trimming trees and vegetation near the trampoline eliminates convenient roosting spots for birds. Without nearby places to perch, birds are less likely to frequent the area. Pruning also reduces leaves and debris falling onto the trampoline.
1. Trim Overhanging Branches
Prune back tree branches that extend over or near the trampoline. Eliminate any spots where birds can comfortably perch directly above and do their business. This forces birds to roost further away.
2. Remove Bird Feeders and Baths
Bird feeders and baths attract birds to yards. Avoid placing them near the trampoline area. Move existing feeders and baths far away to discourage bird presence and reduce poop problems.
3. Clean Out Rain Gutters
Rain gutters full of leaves and debris create nesting spots for pest birds. Keep all gutters near the trampoline cleaned out to get rid of convenient bird habitats.
4. Install Bird Spikes
Install plastic bird spikes on eaves, signs, fences, or any other spots near the trampoline that birds like to perch. The spikes prevent landing and roosting on surfaces.
5. Scare Birds Away at Night
Use lasers, flashlights, or sounds at night to startle roosting birds and scare them off of trees or eaves near the trampoline. Doing this consistently will discourage birds from returning to roost in the area.
How to Cover a Trampoline to Prevent Bird Poop?
Trampoline covers provide full protection from falling bird droppings when the trampoline is not in use. A fitted weather-resistant cover keeps the trampoline mat clean and dry.
1. Get a Custom Trampoline Cover
For the best protection, invest in a cover specially designed to fit your trampoline model. Custom covers secure underneath the frame padding and barrier with elastic bands. This prevents wind lift while fully protecting the jumping surface.
2. Use a Large Tarp as a Budget Cover
For a cheaper alternative, use a heavy-duty tarp or drop cloth to cover the trampoline. Look for one approximately 2-3 feet wider than the frame. Secure it using weights or bungee cords. Just check that water doesn’t pool on top.
3. Remove the Cover Before Using
Always remove any cover before letting kids play on the trampoline. Jumping on the trampoline with the cover on poses serious injury hazards. Take off the cover and store it safely before playtime.
How to Remove Bird Poop from a Trampoline?
Regularly cleaning droppings keeps the trampoline sanitary and prevents harmful bacteria from accumulating. Use proper safety precautions when cleaning to avoid health risks.
1. Wear Protective Gear
Wear disposable gloves, goggles, a particle mask or respirator, and coveralls when cleaning up bird waste. This gear protects against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites that droppings contain.
2. Remove Debris with a Broom
Use a stiff bristle broom to sweep off any loose poop and debris from the trampoline mat. Sweep droppings off the mat to a side for easy pickup. Be sure to wear a particle mask to avoid inhaling dried poop dust.
3. Disinfect the Mat and Net
Spray down the trampoline mat and net with disinfectant cleaner. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes. This kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
4. Scrub Off Stuck-On Poop
Use a scrub brush with warm, soapy water to clean any remaining stuck-on poop spots. Scrub trouble spots gently to avoid damaging the mat fabric. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
5. Power Wash for a Deep Clean
For a deep clean, power wash the mat and nets to blast off all poop and debris. Adjust the pressure to avoid damaging the jumping surface. Wear protective goggles and clothing to stay dry.
6. Let the Trampoline Dry Completely
Allow the trampoline mat and nets to dry fully in the sun after washing. Trampoline surfaces take longer to dry than you might expect, so give it a few hours. Jumping on a wet trampoline can cause injury.
7. Safely Disinfect Accessories
Remove and disinfect any clips, belts, or accessories before kids use the trampoline again. Follow manufacturer cleaning guidelines. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
8. Maintain a Poop-Free Trampoline
Staying vigilant is key to keeping your trampoline free of nasty bird droppings. Follow these tips to maintain a clean trampoline all season long.
9. Inspect and Clean Regularly
Check under and around the trampoline at least weekly for new poop. Immediately clean any fresh droppings to prevent buildup. Doing regular spot cleaning prevents deep cleaning later.
10. Reapply Deterrents Often
Reapply scent deterrents and refresh reflective tapes every 1-2 weeks. Birds quickly become desensitized, so rotating deterrents keeps them guessing. Frequent reapplication is critical.
11. Monitor Effectiveness
Observe whether your deterrents successfully keep birds away from the trampoline. If not, try new methods. Persistence and experimenting with different repellents leads to success.
12. Cover When Not in Use
Use a trampoline cover when the trampoline won’t be used for an extended period. This keeps the surface clean and free of poop between play sessions.
13. Set Reminders to Clean
Set calendar reminders on your phone to periodically inspect for bird poop and disinfect the trampoline. This way you won’t forget and let droppings accumulate.
Conclusion
Keeping birds from pooping on a trampoline requires proactive measures like deterrents, barriers, and covers. But with the right combination of techniques, you can successfully protect the trampoline from bird droppings. Implementing regular cleaning regimens also ensures kids have a sanitary, healthy place to play all summer long. With a focused prevention plan, you can outsmart nuisance birds and their messy poop habits.
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