Birdproofing

Proofing Methods

There is a wide array of bird proofing systems on the market today to suit almost every application. The 'bird pressure' (the motivation of birds to re-gain access to a proofed area.) of the site must be assessed in order to choose the correct system.

Netting

Heavy-pressure areas are characterised by lots of fouling, nesting material and even eggs. They are very sheltered and are used by birds nesting at night. Netting is perhaps the most effective deterrent for such areas, as are some heavy-duty point systems, but may need to be supported by local cull to remove persistent individual birds.

Medium-pressure areas are less sheltered but still heavily fouled. They are favoured daytime perching areas overlooking a food source. Netting, post-and-wire and spike systems may be appropriate in these areas. However, birds are likely to be displaced to adjacent sites.

Low-pressure areas are exposed, occasional perching places with little fouling. Any proofing system can be used including barrier coil, spikes and gel.

Bird netting systems, which screen off problem areas, can give 100% success when installed correctly. Nets come in sizes to suit house sparrows, starlings and feral pigeons, although it will successfully exclude other birds too. Netting can be specified in several colours to suit the building's masonry.

Post-and-wire systems

Post-and-wire systems are tried and tested applications, which can be used on ledges, ridges and other structures to prevent birds gaining a foothold.

Pin (Spike) systems

Pin systems (also known as spike or point systems) are simple to apply, made up of strips containing various arrangements or upright metal or plastic pins to dissuade the birds and prevent them alighting on the surface. They are very adaptable and can be used to proof a wide variety of plain or ornate buildings.

Gel systems

Gel systems are applied to ledges using a caulking gun, and then painted with a sealing fluid to create a flexible barrier to birds' feet - the sensation underfoot feels unpleasant and unstable to the birds, thus preventing perching.

Physical Barriers

Plastic strip curtain doors should always be considered for large openings where bird ingress into buildings causes problems.