How to Get a Bird Out of Your Garage: Step-by-Step Guide

It’s surprisingly common: a bird flies into your garage (maybe chasing insects, seeking shelter, or just by mistake) and then becomes disoriented or trapped. That fluttering and panicked flying around the garage can be stressful for both you and the bird.

The good news: in most cases, you can safely and humanely help the bird escape without causing harm. In this article, we provide a step-by-step guide to get a bird out of your garage, along with long-term prevention strategies to avoid future incidents.

Why Birds Get Stuck in Garages

Bird netting installed in a corporate garage

• Garages often feel safe and sheltered (away from predators or bad weather). This can attract birds seeking refuge or exploring. 

• Once inside, birds become disoriented. They tend to fly toward light rather than down or sideways toward an exit. 

• Bright interior lights, open doors/windows, and clutter or obstacles can confuse the bird’s sense of direction, making escape difficult. 

Step-By-Step: How to Get a Bird Out of Your Garage

Method 1: Natural Exit (Best if Possible)

1. Open all exits

   • fully open the garage door, side doors, and windows if available. Create as many exit paths as possible. 

2. Turn off interior lights, keep outside light on

   • birds naturally fly toward light; they will see the brighter outdoor opening as their escape route. 

3. Leave the bird alone 

   • avoid chasing, waving, or making sudden movements. Noise and commotion may frighten it and cause more panic. 

4. Give it time 

   • many birds will eventually orient toward the outside light and fly out once they calm down. 

In one real-world example, a hummingbird trapped in a garage was freed simply by turning off lights and opening the garage door — no nets or chasing required. 

If the bird flies out on its own, you’re done! If not (or if it’s stuck up high) consider Method 2.

Method 2: Gentle Guidance (When Natural Exit Doesn’t Work)

If the bird seems confused or stuck (e.g., flying high, circling, or refusing to exit), you can try to gently guide it out:

• Use a long object

  • Gently use a broom, mop, or long stick to guide the bird out. Do not swing it. The goal is to encourage direction, not scare or harm. 

• Create a light path

  • Shine a light near the open garage door or exit to draw the bird’s attention outward. 

• Avoid abrupt or loud movements

  • keep calm and deliberate so the bird doesn’t panic.

If gentle guidance doesn’t work, or the bird appears exhausted, injured or disoriented, move to Method 3.

Method 3: Safe Capture & Release (Only If Necessary)

Use this method only if the bird is grounded, exhausted, or stuck and unable to leave on its own:

1. Wear gloves

   • it's important to protect yourself and reduce risk of injury or disease. 

2. Use a soft towel, box, or bird net

   • gently cover the bird to avoid hurting it. Do not trap or squeeze. 

3. Carry it outside

   • place the container near an open door, then allow the bird to fly out when it regains composure. 

4. If the bird is weak or injured consider contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local wildlife rescue office, rather than trying to “treat” it yourself. 

After the Bird Is Gone: How to Prevent Future Incidents

• Seal or screen off entry points

  • install fine mesh over vents, small windows, or gaps; use weather-stripping around doors. 

• Keep pet food and garbage sealed

  • birds might be attracted by open bins, food, or trash. 

• Avoid leaving garage doors open when unattended

  • especially at dusk or night when birds may be migrating or seeking shelter.

• Reduce internal lighting if you often leave doors open

  • bright lights attract birds, so consider keeping only exterior lighting on if needed.

• Install deterrents or screens if you have frequent bird traffic.

  • A properly installed barrier can prevent birds from entering while still allowing ventilation.

When to Call a Professional or Wildlife Rehabilitator

• The bird appears injured, weak, or unable to fly

  • don’t attempt to handle it beyond safe containment. Contact a licensed rehabilitator. 

• You suspect the bird is a protected species, or there may be a nest with eggs or chicks

  • legal protections may prohibit handling or removal.

• The bird keeps returning despite prevention efforts

  • your garage may need structural repairs, screening, or bird-proofing installation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will turning off the light and opening the door really let the bird escape safely?

A: Yes! Many birds fly toward the brightest exit. Turning off interior lights and providing a clear exit path gives the bird a chance to orient itself and fly out on its own.

Q: Is it safe to use a broom or net to guide the bird out?

A: Only if done gently and with care. Avoid swinging or chasing. The goal is to direct the bird, not scare or injure it.

Q: What if the bird is injured or looks sick?

A: In that case, safely capture it using gloves and a box or soft towel, then contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Handling injured birds improperly can worsen their condition.

Q: How can I prevent birds from entering my garage in the future?

A: Seal cracks, install mesh/screens over vents/windows, keep food and trash sealed, avoid leaving doors open unattended, and minimize interior lighting when doors are open.

Conclusion

Having a bird trapped in your garage is stressful, but in most cases, a calm, careful approach works. Opening exits, turning off lights, and giving the bird space are usually enough to help it find its way out. If that doesn’t work, gentle guidance or careful capture (followed by release or rehab) is a humane solution.

More importantly, once you’ve resolved the immediate problem, take steps to bird-proof your garage to prevent repeat incidents. With a little prevention and awareness, you can keep your garage bird-free while being respectful to wildlife.

If you’d like professional help with bird deterrents or exclusion, we at AviAway specialize in humane, effective bird control solutions. Click here to schedule a call or call 844-247-3373.