The secret to trapping is to pre-bait for about one week before setting the trap. Also, remember that birds can learn quickly how to escape a trap, so it may be necessary to try different types of traps to keep the birds from becoming trap shy or trap smart. House sparrows will quickly learn how to enter and leave a funnel trap. Some crafty birds have learned to come and go through a funnel trap as easily as a person walks through a doorway. By adding bobs to the funnel entrance you can out-smart those individuals.
Many traps can be homemade and funnel entrance traps are also commercially available.
Some traps like the elevator traps are only available in garden supply catalogs. It is also possible to flush the sparrows from the nest into a bait or insect net held in front of the nest opening. Shooting Before considering shooting as a control method, contact your local law enforcement agency to find out about the laws in your area. Many cities and towns also have local ordinances protecting birds, which may include pest species like house sparrows. Be absolutely sure of what you are shooting and identify your back stop.