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In a Nutshell
- Ram, Jeep, and Chevy cars are the most frequent bird-dropping targets.
- Brown, red, and black vehicles attract more mess than lighter colors.
- Quarter of U.S. drivers spend $500 annually on car washes or repairs related to bird poop.
- Parking under cover or using a car cover can save hundreds each year.
LURAY, Va. — Brown car owners may want to rethink their color choice. A new survey of 1,000 American drivers reveals that brown vehicles attract the most bird droppings, followed by red and black cars. White and silver cars ranked lowest, suggesting that lighter colors may offer some protection from the aerial assault that costs Americans hundreds of millions of dollars each year.
The survey, conducted by garage and carport retailer Alan’s Factory Outlet, set out to explore what owner Alan Bernau Jr. call “a messy but relatable problem,” combining driver experiences with research on bird behavior and parking habits. The color findings offer more than just a curiosity: they point to a real financial burden. Nearly a quarter of Americans (24%) spend over $500 annually on car washes and repairs related to bird droppings, with Tesla and BMW owners facing the steepest bills.
Scientists have theories about why certain colors attract more bird droppings. Birds possess the ability to detect ultraviolet light, giving them enhanced color vision compared to humans. Certain shades stand out more prominently in their visual field, potentially explaining why darker colors seem like prime targets.
Shiny surfaces create another problem. Hoods and side mirrors can act like mirrors, reflecting a bird’s own image. During mating season, territorial birds may mistake their reflection for a rival, leading to repeated “attacks” on the same vehicle.
Ram, Jeep, and Chevrolet Get Hit Hardest
Beyond color, certain brands suffer more than others. Ram trucks topped the list as the most frequently targeted by bird droppings, followed closely by Jeep and Chevrolet. Nissans and Dodges round out the top five. Of course, if you own these brands or are thinking of buying, keep in mind that the rankings are far from scientific — a pool of 1,000 different drivers could yield an entirely different list.
More than 1 in 10 drivers reported actual paint damage caused by bird droppings. Bird droppings contain uric acid, which can eat through car paint if left untreated, leaving permanent marks on vehicle surfaces. The financial toll adds up quickly. Over half of all drivers (57%) have paid for a car wash specifically to remove bird droppings, and 39% wash their cars multiple times per month because of it.
Tesla and BMW owners face particularly steep bills. Two-thirds of drivers of each brand reported spending over $500 annually dealing with bird droppings, making these luxury vehicles surprisingly expensive to keep clean.
Nearly a Third of Drivers Feel Personally Targeted
Close to one-third of Americans (29%) feel like birds have personally singled out their vehicle for attack. Lexus drivers feel the most targeted, with 47% reporting that sensation, followed by Tesla owners at 39% and Dodge drivers at 35%.
Over half of Americans (58%) said their car had been pooped on more than once in the same day. For some, the problem disrupted daily life. More than 1 in 20 Americans (6%) canceled or delayed plans because their car was too dirty from bird droppings, and over 1 in 10 (14%) got droppings on themselves while getting in or out of their vehicle.
These experiences have changed how people park. Nearly one-third of Americans (29%) have altered their usual parking spot to avoid bird droppings, while 55% admitted their current parking setup provides little to no protection. Many drivers go out of their way for a cleaner car, with 38% willing to walk up to a full city block just to avoid parking under what they call “poop zones.”
Simple Solutions Can Save Hundreds
Cars parked beneath trees, power lines, or street signs sit directly under some of the most common bird perches. These spots provide safety and visibility for birds, but they also put any vehicles below in the firing line.
About 1 in 5 Americans (21%) said they would invest in a car cover or garage addition to protect their vehicle, with many willing to spend around $50 per month for better coverage. Covered parking options such as carports offer a practical solution for drivers looking to avoid costly cleanups.
While drivers can’t change bird behavior, they can reduce their risk. Parking in covered areas when possible offers the most reliable protection. Car covers provide an affordable alternative for those who expect long-term outdoor parking. Avoiding parking spots under trees, wires, or ledges where birds frequently roost also helps minimize exposure.
For Ram, Jeep, and Chevrolet owners who feel like they’re fighting a losing battle, the data backs up their frustration. Whether it’s the boxy shape of these vehicles, their popularity on the road, or simply bad luck, these brands bear the brunt of bird droppings more than others. With some strategic parking choices and modest investments in protection, drivers can keep their cars cleaner and their wallets fuller.
Survey Methodology
Alan’s Factory Outlet surveyed 1,000 American car owners to determine which vehicles are most frequently targeted by bird droppings. Respondents had an average age of 40 years. The generational breakdown included Gen Z (16%), millennials (53%), Gen X (26%), and baby boomers (6%). The survey combined driver experiences with research on bird behavior and parking habits to provide insights into the frequency, costs, and prevention strategies related to bird droppings on vehicles. Due to rounding, some percentages may not total exactly 100%
