7 JANUARY 1922, Page 23

BIRDS AND THATCHED HOUSES.

[To THE EDITOR OF THE " SPECTATOR."] SIR,—Could any of your readers tell me how I am to prevent wild birds tearing the thatch off my houses? It is said that the birds find grubs in the damp straw. The trouble and expense have been very great the past few years, and as soon as the roof is well patched the damage starts at once again. Wires

seem to- be no use. Is there a spray that would destroy the insects, be distasteful to tho birds, and harmless to the straw?