After the pair builds a nest, the male continues to defend the territory while the female hatches eggs. This factor cannot be controlled because space is determined by the area of a yard or farmstead. Food, water and shelter are elements that can be manipulated to manage birds in the yard or other urban setting. Providing these attracts birds, removing them keeps birds away. All are essential, yet not all bird problems can be eliminated by taking away just one element.
Variety is a key word in wildlife management.
It is often necessary to use a variety of excluding and repelling methods simultaneously to control nuisance birds. Food sources for birds include seeds, fruits, berries and insects. To reduce the number of problem birds, eliminate or control their access to food. Strategies for controlling problem birds around homes are often different from those needed around farmsteads. The homeowner may reduce the number of undesirable birds by choosing plants that do not produce edible nuts, fruits and berries, or by changing the type of food offered in bird feeders.