How Do I Stop Birds or Rodents from Nesting in Gutters?

If you’ve ever heard scratching or fluttering near your roof, you might already have some unexpected visitors in your gutters. In Seattle’s mild, wet climate, gutters can look like the perfect home for small birds or rodents — warm, dry, and full of leaves to build with. But what feels cozy to them can quickly turn into a clog, a leak, or even damage to your roofline.

At CR Gutters, Inc.™, we’ve helped plenty of homeowners deal with these little tenants. The good news is, once you understand why they move in, it’s easy to keep them out for good.

Why Birds and Rodents Nest in Gutters

Quick answer: Gutters give birds and rodents a safe, sheltered spot that’s easy to reach and already filled with nesting material.

In Seattle’s mild, rainy springs, wildlife gets busy finding places to nest. When gutters are full of leaves, twigs, or moss, they look like ready-made homes. Birds tuck in for cover from predators, and rodents see them as a quick pathway straight to your attic.

Those nests might seem small, but they cause big problems. They block water flow, trap moisture, and add weight that can pull gutters loose or cause leaks at the corners. Eventually, that trapped water can spill over and damage siding, fascia, or even your foundation.

How to Keep Animals Out

Try this: Keep gutters clear and install end-caps or mesh guards to close off open spaces.
Here’s what works best in Seattle’s climate:

• Regular cleaning. Have gutters cleared at least twice a year — once after the fall leaf drop and again in early spring before nesting season begins.
• Mesh or micro-guards. These covers let water through but block twigs, leaves, and curious critters from getting in.
• End-caps. Make sure every open gutter end is sealed; birds love those tucked-away corners.
• Check downspouts. Each spring, look for debris or nests hiding in vertical runs.
• Trim trees. Branches too close to the roof give easy access to animals looking for shelter.

If you already have nests, don’t just flush them out with a hose. Remove them gently, clean the gutter thoroughly, and seal any entry points right away.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Stop signs:

• Twigs, grass, or feathers sticking out of the gutters
• Rust or discoloration near downspouts
• Overflowing water even after light rain
• Unusual noises near the roofline

Catching these signs early can save you from more expensive repairs — and some messy surprises.

Typical Cost

In Seattle, mesh guards usually cost $8–$12 per foot installed, depending on gutter style. Professional nest removal and cleaning runs about $150–$250 per visit. Installing guards upfront often costs less in the long run than multiple cleanouts each year.

Keep Your Gutters Clear — and Critter-Free

Your gutters should guide the rain, not shelter birds or squirrels. With a little care, you can keep them clear and working year-round.

Tired of cleaning them out after every storm? Call CR Gutters, Inc.™ at (253) 447-1419 — we’ll make sure your gutters stay clean, strong, and ready for Seattle’s rain.