How to Prevent Barn Swallows From Nesting on Your Home

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Once barn swallows begin nesting, homeowners have very limited options. Because these birds are protected under federal law, the most effective—and least stressful—approach is prevention before nesting begins.

Timing is everything.

Barn swallows are highly loyal to nesting sites. If they successfully raise young on a home one season, they’re very likely to return to the same spot the following year. Once eggs or chicks are present, nests cannot be removed, relocated, or disturbed.

That’s why prevention must happen before birds begin building.

In Texas, barn swallows typically return in early to mid-spring, depending on weather patterns. Prevention should begin before birds are consistently present, ideally in late winter or very early spring.

If you wait until you see birds actively flying in and out of a nest area, it’s usually too late.

Barn swallows favor:

• Porch ceilings and entryways
• Eaves and soffits
• Ledges under rooflines
• Sheltered areas protected from wind and rain
   

These spots should be inspected early each year, especially if nesting occurred in the past.

Preventive strategies focus on making nesting surfaces unattractive, without harming birds.

Common approaches include:

• Installing physical barriers or deterrents before nesting
• Modifying ledges so nests can’t adhere
• Removing old, inactive nests outside of nesting season
• Addressing sheltered areas that repeatedly attract birds
   

It’s important that any deterrents are installed before nesting begins. Using them once birds are active can cause stress to wildlife and may violate federal protections.

Homeowners should avoid:

• Removing nests that may be active
• Using adhesives, sprays, or substances that could trap or harm birds
• Blocking birds inside enclosed areas
• Attempting relocation during nesting season
   

These actions can cause legal issues and unintended harm.

Barn swallows play a beneficial role in controlling insect populations, but that doesn’t mean they need to nest on your front porch. With early planning and proper timing, it’s possible to protect both your home and local wildlife.

For homeowners who want to avoid repeat nesting year after year, prevention done before spring is the most effective, compliant solution.

If you’re unsure when to act or how to approach prevention legally, professional guidance can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure everything is done the right way. We can help with this!