ANSWER: This is more common than you might think and Sun Spots located many sources that state the reason the birds peck and consume the paint is not clear, but since paint has calcium in it, the jays are probably seeking the calcium from the paint. Paint pecking is most often reported during the winter, when snow covers the ground and the birds do not have access to dirt, earth and sand, which may provide their usual supply of minerals. So, they may be attempting to supplement their diet.

There are two popular solutions to try. The first is to make the area inaccessible to the birds. Observe the exact locations the birds are most interested in and try covering the area with heavy plastic, chicken wire or small-mesh plastic garden netting.

Another strategy is to supply the birds with what may be lacking in their diet. Offer them eggshells crumbled into small pieces and placed near feeders. The eggshells contain reserves of calcium. Try putting them out in a flat dish on a platform feeder where there are sunflower seeds that will also attract the jays. You may want to start by putting the eggshells near the area where the birds are pecking your paint, then gradually move them away so the jays will no longer be attracted to your house.

Note that you will need to replace the shells if they are covered by snowfall, as the birds will not search for them, but more likely will return to the paint on your house. Also, egg shells may contain salmonella bacteria and it is best to boil the shells for 10 minutes or heat them in the oven for 20 minutes at 250 degrees, let them cool and crush them.

The Stanton Bird Club also notes that an alternative to egg shells is oyster shells, which are available at Paris Farmers Union.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: There is a sour smell in my refrigerator that I can’t get rid of. You are so good at solving so many things, that’s why I’m turning to you and your readers. Love your column! — No Name., Lewiston.

ANSWER: Sun Spots located a few possible solutions to your odor problem. Fill a small bowl with charcoal (the kind used for potted plants or charcoal briquettes) and place it on a shelf in your fridge. In a few days, the charcoal should absorb the odors. Dry coffee grounds may also work in place of charcoal.

Another trick is to pour vanilla on a piece of cotton and place it in the refrigerator or mix about one half cup of baking soda with a tablespoon or two of vanilla extract and place the bowl on the bottom shelf of the fridge. This should also absorb odors.

Thoroughly cleaning the interior of the refrigerator with a mixture of baking soda and water will help deodorize the appliance as well. Don’t forget to remove the shelves and bins, and wash and dry them before replacing.

Sun Spots checked with major appliance manufacturers and most of them offer cleaning guides for refrigerators. Do not use bleach or ammonia as this could crack or damage the refrigerator liner.

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