Lark Control

Colorado Is Home To More Than One Type Of Lark

When referring to Larks, multiple birds fit the bill in Colorado. The Horned Lark is the only true lark found in the United States. However, lark often refers to the Lark Bunting, Colorado’s state bird, and the Western Meadowlark. While these species differ significantly, lark control tips cover these birds and most other birds that frequent homes.

Boldly Colored Meadowlarks

Another bird that might prompt lark control or removal is the Meadowlark. This bird is comparable in size to the Robin. They have long legs, bold patterns of color, and a beautiful warble call. These birds have long and slender bills used to eat a large variety of insects and seeds. They spend much time foraging on the ground and usually fly short distances at low elevations. 

Meadowlarks boast eye-catching yellow underbellies and throats. They have a thick black ‘V’ across their breast. Their back and wings appear speckled with dark brown and tan feathers. Like many species, females are less vibrant than males.

At-Home Lark Control Methods

Expecting to rid your property of all larks and other birds is unrealistic. However, many DIY bird control methods will help reduce the number of birds frequenting your yard. But, effectiveness is often temporary and requires repeated application. Therefore, contacting professionals experienced in lark control is the most productive approach.  

Bright Lights Deter Larks

A common at-home method of bird control is bright flashes of light. The easiest way to achieve this is to use shiny objects. Hanging objects such as old CDs, tinfoil, or metallic yard ornaments use the sun to distract the birds. In addition, the bright flashes discourage larks from returning as the objects move and catch the sun.

Lark Control Using Predator Sounds

Another sound-based form of lark prevention is the use of predator sounds. Using recorded sounds of predator birds, such as hawks and owls, as well as bird distress calls, will alert pesky larks that the area is unsafe.

In addition to these noises, using owl or hawk decoys will ensure that larks see the area as dangerous. But larks and other birds will become accustomed to repetitive noises and unmoving predators. Thus, relocating the decoy and having a device that uses multiple sounds will yield more effective results.

Using Sound To Scare Birds Away

Another way to discourage larks and other birds is by using sound. There are a variety of noises that scare birds away. The easiest and most common lark control sounds are ultrasonic and predator sounds.

Ultrasonic Devices Repel Birds

These gadgets use high-frequency ultrasonic sounds that humans do not hear. Because birds have sensitive hearing, they find these noises unpleasant. Ultrasonic devices are also easy to find at outdoor and hardware stores. However, ensure the device is geared toward birds and will not harm or irritate pets and other animals.

Physical Barriers For Lark Control

When sound is not enough to scare larks away, physical barriers are the following line of defense. These prevent birds from landing and nesting. Two of the most common physical barriers are bird netting and bird spikes.

The use of bird netting prevents larks from entering specific locations. Nets are beneficial in keeping larks out of gardens and flowerbeds but ensure they cannot become entangled. Meanwhile, bird spikes help prevent larks from roosting and nesting in particular areas. Placing these small metal spikes makes it uncomfortable for bids to land, encouraging them to find alternative resting places.