There are a few smells that will keep birds away, including: chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and coffee grounds. You can either place these items in strategic locations around your property or make a spray to deter birds. To make a bird repellent spray, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and add some crushed chili peppers, garlic cloves, or coffee grounds. Give the mixture a shake and spray it on areas where you don’t want birds to land or nest.