Bird Proof Products

Winter is here and it’s time to winterize your home. This is typically when you seal all the cracks between wood and stucco, wood window casings, etc.  It’s also the time when you need to check your rain gutters and spouts, and when you check around chimney areas and vents. It’s also the time when you should be thinking about bird proofing your home. Bird, after all will be looking to settle in for the winter and if your home isn’t protected with bird deterrents, they’ll gravitate to your home and you know what that means: nests, feathers and bird droppings.  Nests in your rain gutters, patio covers, gazebos and all those nooks and crannies in your home’s exterior. 

The good news is, you can prevent birds from flocking around your home by implementing an effective and humane bird control strategy. Here are several bird deterrents that you should consider installing when winterizing your home:

Sonic Bird Deterrents

You can blast air horns and set off firecrackers to scare birds away. But they’ll come back as soon as you go backing the house. Sound Bird Deterrents have been proven effective because they emit distress and predator sounds that frighten birds. The best sonic deterrents will emit sounds that birds can hear (unlike ultrasonic deterrents which emit sounds birds can’t hear).  If you had crows, starlings, swallows, gulls, woodpeckers, sparrows, grackles, cormorants last year, you might want to consider using the sonic system many have turned to: it emits distress and predator calls for as many as 22 types of birds. By the way, sonic bird deterrents only create sounds that resemble normal birdcalls, so they won’t annoy your neighbors and pets.

Balloons and Banners

Easy to install and quite effective in deterring birds from your home and backyard, Banners, Flash Tape and Balloons make pest birds feel too uncomfortable to stay. These deterrents rattle and reflect sunlight as they twist and flap in the breeze. Balloons have the added advantage of large, predator eyes that spook birds, making them think a large predator is eyeballing them. For best results, these visual bird deterrents should be moved around occasionally to keep the threat looking alive and real.

Bird Spiders

Easy to place on rooftops, patio covers and other elevated areas, Bird Spiders boast long spindly arms that prevent birds from landing. Spiders come in 2-, 4- and 8-foot diameter arm lengths to protect increasingly wider areas. A variety of mounting bases allow for easy positioning on most flat areas.

Bird Slope™

Angled, slippery PVC panels, Bird Slope deterrents are easy to install in all those 90-degree nooks and crannies where birds tend to nest. The panels come in a variety of colors to blend in with your home’s aesthetics. The best panels are made of UV-stabilized polycarbonate to last longer in tough outdoor weather.

by Alex A. Kecskes

If you own or operate a seaside resort, you know the problems pest birds like gulls can create. Large birds like these can invade private outdoor areas, including pools, spas, patios and beachside bars. They can become a real nuisance in outdoor eating areas as they scavenge for food scraps, poop on tables, soil chairs and lounges. 

Guests accustomed to being pampered won’t easily forget the traumas or problems they encountered with pest birds. And word of mouth in this Internet and social media age can quickly ruin a resort’s sterling reputation. As birds continue to harass your resort’s guests, you’ll find yourself spending more time in cleanups and having to comp annoyed guests for their “experience with birds.”

Gulls can also create maintenance and repair problems throughout your resort. Rooftop AC units, lighting systems and security cameras can be blocked or rendered non functional by gull droppings and nests. Pool and spa filters will require more frequent attention as droppings and nest debris contaminate them.

As you may already have discovered, gulls can be aggressive and persistent. You can blast them with a water hose or slap at them with towels, but they’ll come back to pester and poop again. If you ever have a party where food is openly on display, your service staff will be working full time waving away gulls rather than paying attention to guests.

Fortunately, you can now avail yourself of a variety of pest bird deterrents that will keep gulls from invading your resort and bothering your guests.

Bird Sounds, But No Birds. The devices are called Sonic Bird Deterrents. And they sound like birds to humans, but birds are scared of them. These highly effective and humane bird deterrents can be discretely installed on patio covers, under eaves or inside gazebos. They’re ideal for getting rid of gulls from large outdoor areas because they emit predator and distress calls that make gulls really nervous. The best bird sonic systems have the ability to change the pitch, frequency, timing and intensity of the sounds they emit. If you have more than gulls pestering your resort, you might look into one popular system that emits distress and predator calls for as many as 22 types of birds.

Go Solar, Say Bye-Bye to Birds. It’s known as the Solar Powered Bird Repeller, a clever device that uses motor-driven arms to flick gulls off certain troublesome areas. The arms whip around continuously at 30 RPM to “remind” even the most hard-headed gull that this is a no landing zone. Some bird repellers have adjustable “arms” that cover up to 5 feet in diameter. Keep in mind, these devices are solar powered, which makes them environmentally suitable for promoting your “green” bird proofing agenda.  Solar powered repellers can be easily set up on patio covers, gazebos, rooftops and other elevated areas. They even store the sun's energy for efficient, uninterrupted day-and-night operation.

Spike the Landing Zones. Strategically placed plastic bird spikes can prevent gulls from landing on the perches they normally use before they swoop down and annoy guests. The best plastic bird spikes are rugged, U.V. protected deterrents that stay strong in wind and sun. Some manufacturers offer a full 5-year guarantee on their plastic bird spikes. This covers the spike against UV degradation.

For those concerned about aesthetics, plastic bird spikes have the added advantage of coming in a wide range of colors--including white, tan, gray, black, brown, brick red and even crystal clear. So that should assuage your worries about spikes being too noticeable. Even custom colors are now available. Plastic bird spikes are economical, too—important if you happen to be on a tight bird-control budget. Finally, the spikes are blunted at the tips, so they won’t injure birds or installation crews.

by Alex A. Kecskes

Pest birds have, for years, taken their toll on homes and boats. Pigeons, seagulls, crows and all manner of pest birds have invaded private property to wreak havoc, destroy and devalue our prized possessions.

Homeowners have had to put up with damage to roofs, gutters and air conditioning units. Any homeowner who has ever had to clean nests and debris out of a gutter knows it's not a pleasant task. Neither is cleaning bird droppings off a solar panel or dish antenna something to look forward to. Any air conditioning repair person will tell you that bird droppings can stop and stall even the most expensive air conditioner.

Boat owners have long had to deal with pest gulls and other annoying birds. Sails and sail boat covers splattered with bird droppings are no fun to clean. In some cases, if the bird droppings aren't removed, the damage to canvas covers can be permanent, causing them to rip and tatter. Damage can be equally serious and permanent to sonar, radar and radio antennas and their motors and mountings. This gear is not cheap to repair or replace. And what boat owner hasn't been obligated to apologize for bird droppings on a deck, step or side runner after a guest has slipped and taken a bad fall. Not to mention the legal liability of such an accident.

Bird Proofing Devices and Solutions

Advances in bird proofing technology have resulted in some very effective and humane pest bird deterrents. These run the gamut from high tech to low cost. Most are easy to install and maintain. 

Bird Spikes Keep 'Em from Landing

A widely used bird deterrent, Bird Spikes are popular among property owners, boat owners and municipalities. The spiked strips look like they would impale whatever comes near them. Not to worry. The blunted spikes are safe for birds, pets and humans. Bird spikes have an uncanny ability to dissuade pest birds from landing. The spikes come in durable stainless steel or stiff, unbreakable polycarbonate. For seagulls, there's a spike called the Mega Spike. So named because it sports some very big spikes--typically 7” high. The best mega spikes are made of marine grade stainless steel. Other spikes come with a crush-proof, non-reflective metal finish. Spikes with a U.V.-protected polycarbonate base will last longer. You can even get angled spikes to accommodate curved surfaces.

Most buildings today have rain gutters where birds tend to gather and nest. When water backs up, it seeps under roofing tiles and shingles, which can lead to expensive roof repairs. Enter the Gutter Spike. It's the ideal way to bird proof against pest birds that love to gather in rain gutters. The spikes have adjustable clamps at the base so they can be easily attached to the lip of a gutter.

Slippery Slope

Simple, humane and highly effective, Bird Slopes are basically just angled PVC panels that won't allow pest birds to get a solid footing when they try to land. It's the ideal bird-proofing device for eaves, ledges, beams and other similar niches. Bird slopes are easily installed on almost any surface using nails, screws or glue. They are virtually maintenance free. And they come in a number of different colors to match your exterior décor.

Gone with the Goo

Birds hate to land on sticky surfaces (like we hate to get gum on our shoes). Bird Gel is the bird proof solution that really annoys most birds. The stuff pumps onto any surface with a standard caulking gun, and when it dries, it stays sticky for a long time--about six months. Pest birds land on it and it tugs at their little feet, step after annoying step, until they can't wait to leave.  Gels are ideal for use on ledges, conduit, pipes, I-beams and parapet walls.

The Net Difference

Barrier deterrents have long been an effective and humane bird proofing solution. One of the best barrier deterrents is Bird Netting. It comes in several net mesh sizes to deter various types and sizes of pest birds. The best bird netting is flame resistant, U.V. stabilized, and rot- and water-proof.

Create an "Optical Distraction Zone”

Bird Scare deterrents have a long and successful history as effective bird proofing devices. These simple reflective foils, shiny tape banners and balloons work because they create a zone of optical distraction that birds just don't like to be around. Some produce a snapping noise in the breeze that adds to the distraction factor. One note about bird scare deterrents: They need to be moved around and replaced every so often or pest birds will get used to them.

In a Class by Itself

Considered the king of bird scare devices, Scarecrows are the ultimate bird-proofing weapons. Humane and highly effective, these innovative devices deter pest birds using a clever blend of technology and bird psychology. Basically a motion-activated sprinkler, Scarecrows deliver a sudden blast of water spray whenever they sense a bird flying or walking near them. Best of all, they combine this sudden water blast with the Scarecrow's moving head and sprinkler sound, which is something pest birds will never forget.
 

by Alex A. Kecskes

Bird proofing government buildings, parks, military bases, and aircraft hangars has been a problem for quite some time.

At the dawn of aviation, the Wright brothers recorded a bird strike that interfered with their early flights. More recently, Hanscom Field in Bedford Massachusetts had roughly 5,000 starlings roosting in their hangar. Clinton Air Force Base in Oklahoma had six hangars with 200-300 house sparrows in each hangar. Lockbourne Air Base in Ohio had 2,000 to 3,000 house sparrows between three hangars with an additional 2,000-3,000 starlings. Wright-Patterson Field had pigeons in their propeller testing area. Selfridge Air Force Base in Michigan suffered from a sparrow invasion. The list goes on and on. Pest birds, it seems, love to hang out in hangers.

Birds entering various openings within aircraft hangars, roost in the I-beams high inside these structures. The Air Force says that the accumulation of droppings, feathers, and other matter poses a big problem. Bird droppings, accumulating on the aluminum skin of airplanes, can corrode the metal and eventually weaken the structure itself. Another concern is that if droppings, feathers, and other matter get into the engines, critically important parts must be cleaned as they could stall an engine during flight. Cleaning an aircraft engine is very expensive and time consuming.

So how does one bird proof these aviation areas? In the past, bird proofing aircraft and the facilities that housed and repaired them was a hit or miss proposition. Toxicants like strychnine-treated grain were used to inhumanely eliminate pest birds—particularly pigeons. Pellet guns were also used. As was high-pressure air or water to discourage roosting.

Today, bird-proofing methods vary from scaring devices, repellents and screening to mists and sonic systems. To bird proof large areas, bird netting creates an impenetrable barrier for most birds. Some heavy-duty bird netting is made of polyethylene fabric and is UV stabilized, flame resistant and rot and waterproof. Netting comes in various mesh sizes to deter a wide range of birds. To seal out small openings, there's copper mesh cloth. Available  in rolls, it's easily stuffed into cracks or holes to let air circulate but keep birds out.

Ideal for hangers, bird-misting systems are both humane and effective. These bird proofing systems work by releasing an ultra fine mist that pest birds can't see and prefer not to be around. The mist typically employs a chemical called methyl anthranilate, a grape extract that naturally occurs in concord grapes. The extract has been widely used for decades to deter a wide variety of pest birds including, sparrows, pigeons, starlings, crows, blackbirds and geese.  Yet it's safe for people, pets, plants and birds.
 
Another useful bird proofing method is the electric-track bird repeller. Ideal for ledges, rooftops, and flat or curved surfaces, these low-profile electrified tracks deliver a non-lethal electric shock that discourages birds from landing or feeding. Some manufacturers offer a flow-through design to keep water from damming up on rooftops and other surfaces.

Bird proofing measures--bird netting, bird repellents, bird spikes and electric shock systems--can be found on our nation's Capitol and White House, as well as on major civil and military facilities worldwide. Bird spikes are ideal for pigeons and other large birds. Some bird spikes are made of strong, rigid unbreakable polycarbonate, others have stainless steel spikes. A cousin to the bird spike is the bird spider. The spider arms wave with the breeze, keeping wild birds from landing. Most come in a variety of diameters and install easily. And although they appear menacing, spikes and spiders won't harm birds.
 
Many government buildings tend to be older with established pest bird populations. Failure to bird proof these buildings and offices can lead to a number of problems. The acid secretion produced by the fungi that live in bird droppings can discolor paint and other surfaces. Pest bird nests and droppings can get sucked into ducts, grilles and vents, blocking air conditioning and heating units. In these tough times with governments under the budget knife, cleaning and restoring buildings damaged by pest birds is one expense many governments can do without.

The bird slope is a simple solution ideal for many government buildings. Suitable for eaves, ledges, beams and other 90-degree areas where pest birds tend to nest and roost, the angled, slippery PVC panels cause pest birds to simply slide off when they try to land. For an even easier-to-install solution, there's bird gel. Birds hate this stuff because it creates a sticky surface that birds find very annoying to land in. It's safe for birds (except swallows) and a great way to keep birds from landing on ledges, I-beams, parapet walls, conduit, pipes, and most flat or curved surfaces.

At public parks, benches, playground equipment, statues, entry monuments and other structures can be rendered unsightly and eventually ruined by pest birds. There's also the health hazard pest birds pose to park visitors. Children placing their hands on bird droppings left on park bench armrests or playground equipment can be at risk, since many fail to wash their hands before snacking at the park. These droppings have been known to carry and transmit any of 60 known diseases. Sparrows and Feral Pigeons can carry bacteria causing Salmonellosis. Feral Pigeons carry Ornithosis--similar to viral pneumonia. If that's not bad enough, birds, bird droppings and their nesting fodder contain insects and mites, which can cause even more damage.

One effective and inexpensive way to bird proof parks is through the use of visual deterrents. Iridescent reflective foil or flash tape can be easily strung around lampposts and turned into pennants. Inflatable balloons are another economical visual scare device. Their lifelike reflective predator eyes and markings drive birds away by creating an “Optical Distraction Zone.”

Keep our country beautiful and safe, and do it humanely by bird proofing.

by Alex A. Kecskes

In many instances, schools and especially universities were built without bird proofing devices. Older schools, colleges and university buildings are likely to have more architectural nooks and deep relief elements for pest birds to land and roost. There’s also the attraction of rooftop air-conditioning units, ventilation fans, and rain gutters. It’s no wonder so many institutions of learning have taken steps to get rid of birds.

Most schools and universities have all sorts of food snack areas. And regrettably, trash cans are often overflowing with discarded, half eaten food. This is an enormous draw for pest birds. There’s also the food that students leave on tables, benches, chairs and lawns. Birds will flock to lookout areas just above these “target rich” food locations. And that means nests, feathers and the dreaded mounds of bird droppings. As most health experts will tell you, bird droppings can carry serious diseases like histoplasmosis, salmonella, ornithosis, pseudotuberculosis, even West Nile Virus.  The top priority as a facilities manager in this case, would be to get rid of birds.

If you’re a facilities or maintenance manager at a school or university, you’ve probably seen what bird droppings can do to many surfaces. The acidic nature of bird droppings can severely mar and eventually destroy statues, building facades, brass or metal signage, entry monuments, rooftop ventilators and AC units. And what an expensive clean-up job it is to remove all those droppings. Trying to restore those damaged surfaces is another costly matter.
Fortunately, there are a number of effective bird control methods you can use to get rid of birds.

Bird Spikes. If they can’t land, they can’t do that much damage. That’s the reasoning behind this popular bird-proofing device used by many schools and universities. You get your choice, too. There’s the strong, rigid unbreakable polycarbonate spike or the flexible stainless steel spike. Steel is a bit tougher and slightly more expensive, but the poly bird spikes are ok to use near cell phone antennas and other RF equipment, as they won’t interfere with RF waves. To get rid of birds around rain gutters, there's the Gutter spike, which connects easily to the lip of rain gutters. For buildings and structures plagued by large birds like gulls, you might try the Mega Spike, with its intimidating 7-inch spikes.

Bird Netting. The ultimate bird barrier and a great way to get rid of birds, bird netting physically excludes a wide range of pest birds from gathering and nesting on schools and university buildings. A product called No-Knot bird netting is very light, easy to handle and very strong. It’s made of non-conductive polypropylene, a chemically inert material that resists acids and alkalis.  It won’t absorb water, rot or mildew. For older schools and universities with partially enclosed towers and belfries, there's Bat Netting, a polyethylene 3/8-inch mesh that's stronger than most bird netting.
 
Electric Bird Repellers. Often referred to as Electric Tracks, these can be used to get rid of birds in areas where netting or spikes would detract from the architecture of a school or university building. They are ideal bird repellent for use on ledges, rooftops, and most flat or curved surfaces. They impart a harmless electric shock that “educates” birds never to return. Opt for the low-profile electrified tracks and those that feature a flow-through design to keep water from damming up around them during rain.

Bird Gels. The bird deterrent “that sticks in their craw,” Bird Gels give pest birds a most uneasy feeling with every step they take. It’s a great way to get rid of birds that always seem to land on the same place. Gels are easy to apply using a standard caulking gun, and they're safe for birds (except swallows). Gels are ideal for use on ledges, parapet walls, conduit, pipes, and most flat or curved surfaces.

By Alex A. Kecskes

In the heart of Sweetwater, Texas, the central courtyard of Rolling Plains Memorial Hospital had a real bird problem--grackles. The beautiful 70’ X 70’ open courtyard is adorned with a green lawn, flowers, trees and a picturesque winding sidewalk. Patients enjoyed strolling through the courtyard, and hospital staff often gathered outside to take a break from their busy schedules. While hospital administrators hoped the courtyard would attract pretty songbirds, grackles invaded the area by the hundreds from the surrounding farmland. The noisy birds created quite a mess. The need for bird repellents was becoming obvious.

The hospital’s Plant Operations Manager was surprised at the number or birds and the awful smell of droppings, which the groundskeeper had to clean up every morning. The bird droppings also became a health hazard, since patients often came out in slippers and tracked in the disease-ridden bird waste back into their rooms. To make matters worse, the mounds of grackle feathers were beginning to interfere with the hospital’s air conditioning system. Something had to be done to get rid of birds.

First was to remove the bird feeders in the courtyard, but the grackles just kept coming. They tried balloons, rubber snakes, and plastic owls, but those bird deterrents didn’t work. So they finally called in a professional bird control company who recommended a Sonic Bird Repeller. They mounted two speakers on the roof, about 15 feet up, and 40 feet apart. They pointed the speakers toward the courtyard and “turned on the music.” With the windows closed, it sounded like a crow outside. To the grackles, it sounded like imminent danger--distress and predator calls that convinced the annoying grackles that they would be hunted and attacked unless they fled. And flee they did, never to return. In no time at all, the beautiful courtyard was clean and tidy, restored to its natural outdoor fragrance. 

Many hospitals and medical centers like the one in Rolling Plains have had to deal with pest bird infestations. Hospital administrators have learned that effective bird control is a necessary part of hospital operations. With today’s tight operating budgets, administrators don’t want to face high maintenance and cleanup costs precipitated by pest bird infestations.

Grackles, pigeons, starlings and sparrows will be drawn to the many nooks and crannies of a hospital's courtyards, break areas, lunch and snack areas and of course, its signs, rooftops and even windowsills. When these areas are covered with droppings, they pose a health hazard, since the bacteria, fungal agents and ectoparasites in droppings and nesting materials have been known to carry any of 60 diseases--including histoplasmosis, encephalitis, salmonella, meningitis, and toxoplasmosis, even the West Nile virus. The resulting clean-up and maintenance costs in dealing with these droppings can be prohibitive. Excessive bird droppings on walkways and entry points can also cause dangerous slip-and-fall hazards--a huge legal liability for any institution.

Today, bird control measures run the gamut and are surprisingly effective. These include various bird deterrents, bird repellents, and bird barriers used by institutions across the country. In addition to Sonic Bird Repellents mentioned above, you might consider using the following to get rid of birds:

Bird Spikes. Ideal for preventing larger birds from landing on rooftops, ledges and other areas, bird spikes come in 3-, 5- and 8-inch widths and two-foot sections. The blunted spikes won't harm birds or maintenance crews, and you can get either stainless steel or rigid U.V.-resistant unbreakable polycarbonate. The poly spikes can be used around cell phone antennas and other RF antenna systems. If you have problems with birds clogging your rain gutters, look into the Gutter Spike, which comes in two-foot long strips. They present an effective bird barrier.

Bird Netting. Hospitals and health care centers have long used bird netting to physically exclude pest birds out of specific areas. Bird netting comes in various types and mesh sizes. For large birds like pigeons or seagulls, use a 1-1/8” to 2” mesh size. For sparrows or starlings, opt for a 3/4" mesh net. Better bird netting usually meets ISO 1806 protocols, is U.V. stabilized, flame resistant and rot- and water-proof. Also note that netting now comes in various colors to blend in better with its surroundings.

by Alex A. Kecskes

As a professional roofer, you’ve learned to recognize the signs of bird damage: If you’re dealing with an asphalt shingle roof, it’s the tell-tale nearly circular shapes of granule loss from bird droppings. The damage is usually found under antennas, trees, or similar raised perches where birds can conveniently “drop their loads.” And one thing you know is that the deterioration of the asphalt coating on a shingle can usually be traced to the acid in bird droppings.

If you’re dealing with a wood roof, bird droppings will, over time, leave the shingles brittle, causing them to crack. Tile roofs, on the other hand, can also be damaged by birds, who often build their nests under tiles, causing them to become loose or dislodged. Tile roofs, often installed for their beauty, can get pretty ugly when covered with bird droppings.

The point being, that birds can cost property owners hundreds, even thousands of dollars in roof damage. Over time, bird nests, droppings and other debris can cause irreparable damage. Roofs damage by birds can leak and even collapse. It’s only logical, therefore, that as a professional roofer, you should consider adding bird proofing to your roofing services. Property owners who spend thousands and tens of thousands of dollars on a new roof will be eager to protect their investment with the professional roofing products you can install for a fraction of that cost.

Without effective bird proofing measures, roofs are vulnerable. Pigeons, starlings and sparrows will often build their nests under roofing shingles and tiles, causing water to rise and leak into the subroof and below. This can cause rotting and extensive damage. Bird nests built near AC units, solar panels or other rooftop electrical equipment can also become a fire hazard. When you add the fact that pest birds can also damage roof-mounted air conditioning equipment, attic ventilation turbines, skylights, solar panels, and solar water heaters, most properly owners will be most receptive to the idea of effective bird control. 

Here are just two examples of effective bird proofing devices currently on the market:

Bird Spikes. Used worldwide to bird proof roofs and structures for decades, Bird Spikes are among the most effective bird control devices ever devised. The spiked strips make it impossible for pest birds to land on or near them. Blunted and safe for birds, pets and work crews, the spikes come in durable stainless steel or stiff, unbreakable polycarbonate. For properties near the sea or other large body of water, there's the Mega Spike, which features intimidating 7-inch spikes to deter seagulls, cormorants, turkey vultures and raptors. To keep pest birds out of rain gutters, there's the Gutter Spike, which can be equipped with adjustable clamps at the base that attach easily to the lip of a gutter.

The marine-grade stainless steel bird spikes are extremely durable. You can also get crush-proof, non-reflective spikes with a metal finish that blend in nicely on most roofs. If your customers are concerned about how the spikes might look, the spikes now come in several colors--including crystal clear, brick red, light grey, brown, black and tan. Plastic spikes are ideal for use in areas where steel spikes might cause signal interference problems (roofs with cell-phone antennas, dish antennas and air traffic control towers). Bird spikes with a U.V.-protected polycarbonate base are recommended in harsh weather.

Bird Slopes. For the truly aesthetically conscious property owner, these angled PVC panels blend right into the building or commercial structure. The panels present a super smooth surface that has birds scrambling like Keystone Cops to get a solid footing. But they never do and slip off every time. Birds soon give up and move on. Bird slopes are ideal for bird-proofing eaves, ledges, and many other nooks and crannies. The angled panels are easy to install on almost any flat surface using nails, screws or glue. They also come in several colors to match a property's exterior décor.

by Alex A. Kecskes

It's an unfortunate reality that commercial building owners spend millions of dollars annually to pay for the damage caused by pest birds. For one thing, bird droppings on windows and facades can seriously detract from a structure's appearance. The acid produced by the fungi that live in bird droppings can corrode metal and erode stone. Unless building owners hire expensive cleaning crews, the damage over time gets worse and more expensive to clean or repair. Bird nests and droppings can also clog gutters and down pipes, causing rooftops to overflow with water and possibly cause entire sections of a rooftop to collapse. Pest bird nests and droppings can also clog air conditioning and heating units, severely damaging these expensive systems.

Unwelcome and Unhealthy Droppings

The bird droppings pest birds leave behind also create offensive odors and can carry any of 60 known diseases. Sparrows and feral pigeons can carry bacteria causing salmonellosis. Such pigeons can even carry ornithosis, which is similar to viral pneumonia. This makes pest birds particularly unwelcome in areas where food is stored, processed or served. When bird droppings litter a sign or cover an outdoor restaurant's tables and chairs, customers will simply avoid the establishment and take their business elsewhere.

Don't Be Served with a Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit

Bird droppings on walkways and entryways to commercial building can create serious slip-and-fall hazards. The only thing more slippery than wet bird poop is a banana peel. For commercial property owners, bird droppings allowed to accumulate on their premises can create a prohibitively expensive and time-consuming legal liability. 

Bird Proofing with Spikes and Spiders

Probably the most popular method of bird proofing a commercial establishment is through the use of bird spikes. Ideal for pigeons and other large birds, spikes discourage pest birds from landing. They come in strong, rigid unbreakable polycarbonate or flexible stainless steel. Typically available in two-foot long strips, bird spikes are blunted so they won't harm birds, pets or people. The best spikes are made of marine-grade stainless steel and feature a U.V.-protected polycarbonate base that you can angle to fit curved surfaces. You can also get spikes with a crush proof, non-reflective metal finish.

To bird proof gutters against large pest birds like seagulls, crows, and pigeons, you'll need the Gutter Spike. Look for spikes with adjustable clamps at the base that make them easy to install to the lip of your gutters. If you're being invaded by cormorants, turkey vultures, raptors and other large birds, opt for the Mega Spike, which has long 7” spikes.

Another popular device used to bird proof an area is the Bird Spider. These devices have long spindly spider-like arms that wave in the breeze to discourage pest birds from landing. They are ideal for use on outdoor restaurant tables before opening hours to keep pest birds from landing on tables. They can also be used on awnings and patio covers. Spiders typically come in a variety of diameters to deter a wide range of bird pests.
They may look threatening, but they are harmless to birds and people.

Nets, Slopes and Gels

Ideal for a broad range of commercial uses, including signs, warehouses, courtyards, canopies, airplane hangars and rooftops, Bird Netting has proven to be an effective bird proofing solution. Often prescribed by architects, bird netting comes in a variety of mesh sizes to deter sparrow, starlings, pigeons, seagulls and larger birds.

Another popular bird proofing device is the Bird Slope. Pest birds simply slide off these angled, slippery PVC panels whenever they attempt a landing. Ideal for eaves, ledges, beams and other 90-degree areas frequented by birds, these slopes are easily screwed, glued or nailed to most any flat surface. They even come in a variety of colors to match a building's exterior décor.

To discourage pest birds from landing on ledges, I-beams, parapet walls, conduit, pipes, and flat or curved surfaces, there's Bird Gel. Birds hate this goop, which is easily applied using a standard caulking gun. The gel never really dries and leaves a sticky surface that bug the heck out of pest birds.

Tracks and Tears

If your property's been inundated with pigeons, seagulls and larger birds, one effective and humane bird proof solution worth trying is the Electric Track. These nifty devices "persuade" pest birds not to land by conveying a mild electric shock to their feet. The tracks are easy to install on ledges, signs, rooftops, and flat or curved surfaces. Some systems are low profile and virtually invisible from ground level. The best tracks feature a flow-through design that keeps water from damming up on rooftops. If you want the tracks to last in harsh weather, opt for corrosion-resistant tracks that resist alkali and acidic environments.

Our next bird proofing solution has been specially created to put a tear in a pest bird's eye. Known as Bird Misting systems, these deliver an ultra fine mist into an area frequently by pest birds. The mist is usually a chemical called methyl anthranilate, a grape extract that naturally occurs in concord grapes. Not to worry, it's safe for people, pets, plants and birds. This chemical has been widely used by growers and vintners for decades to deter sparrows, pigeons, starlings, crows, blackbirds and geese.  The destruction these birds cause growers is incredible--from wiping out entire vineyards to destroying crops en masse.

Misting systems are also ideal for bird proofing large industrial or commercial garages, factories, airline hangars, courtyards, landfills, parking lots, and other commercial areas.

 

by Alex A. Kecskes

Pest birds have long been a nuisance to homeowners, boat owners, businesses and municipalities. The bird droppings they leave behind contain high amounts of uric acid, which can permanently stain finishes of wood and metal. They can also reduce expensive stonework to rubble. Then there are the health hazards posed by bird droppings, which can be infested with any of 60 rather unpleasant diseases. Outdoor eateries, school playgrounds, parks, and child care nurseries can be highly vulnerable to the spread of these diseases by pest birds.

Bird droppings also create slip-and-fall hazards, which can result in a costly legal liability for public and private organizations. Bird Proof Electric Track--essentially electrified track that imparts a safe, electrical jolt--can discourage pest birds from landing and nesting to eliminate many of these problems.

The nests created by pest birds can also present a costly problem. Their twigs, branches and feathers can stop up gutters and water channels. They can seize up air conditioning units and rooftop ventilators, and jam up windows and doors. Pest bird nests can cause electrical fires in electrical junction boxes and near electrical terminals.

Another major bird control problem presented by pest birds is their propensity to work through paper, plastic and sometimes even thin wood containers to get at food, fruits, grains and other packaged goods at warehouses, packing plants and delivery depots.

Bird Proof Electric Track Defined

Bird Proof Electric Track systems are tracks imbedded with an electrically conductive track that carries a mild electrical current used to prevent birds from landing. The "jolt" imparted is safe for both birds and people. Track systems can be used in a variety of locations and will deter a wide range of pest birds--including pigeons, seagulls and starlings. Bird Proof Electric Track systems install easily on virtually any flat or curved surface and are ideal for ledges, signs, rooftops, parapet walls, I-beams, and under eaves.

For those concerned with aesthetics, the tracks come in a variety of colors to blend in with any exterior décor--including terracotta, grey, stone, and black. Some manufacturers offer a low-profile product that is virtually invisible when properly installed on a ledge or sign. The best Bird Proof Tracks feature a low profile flow-through design, which keeps water from damning up on rooftops and other surfaces. When looking for a track, pick one that you can bend to fit along curved signs and ledges. And to cut down on the risk of spark damage, choose Bird Proof Track that has an anti-arcing design.

Installing Bird Proof Electric Track

It's not hard to install Bird Proof Track. Most manufacturers have designed their systems to be fairly simple and straightforward. One company lets you just unwind the amount of track you need from a rolled track and glue it down to virtually any surface. Better track products are on a totally flexible PVC base, which you can bend 360° without compromising the track's integrity.

Lightweight Bird Proof Electric Track is also available. This tends to streamline the whole installation process. In fact, super light tracks are now available that weigh just 10 pounds per100 feet. The best track systems feature waterproof connections that fit tightly together to ensure the installation is bird safe. Bird Proof Track systems are typically powered by an AC charger. Some even come with a solar charger. Whichever track system you finally decide on, it's best to install them using trained professionals who know how to work with them safely.

by Alex A. Kecskes

Bird netting and pigeon netting are widely used on buildings throughout the world. Netting is an exclusionary bird proofing strategy that physically denies access to virtually all pest birds.

One of the best is netting is Heavy-Duty Polyethylene Bird Netting. It's made from a U.V. stabilized mesh and comes in various stock sizes and custom cuts. Usually, a structure is prone to attract a certain kind of bird, so the netting you will want to use will depend on the bird to be excluded from your building. Larger birds will require a 2-inch mesh; medium sized birds will be stopped by a 1 1/8-inch mesh; and smaller birds will be denied by a 3/4-inch mesh. In most cases, netting is available in a variety of colors to blend in with the fascia of the building and not detract from its aesthetics.

You'll want to get netting that stands up to harsh weather. The best netting is ISO 1806 protocol mesh tested. It's flame resistant, rot-proof, and non-conductive so as not to interfere with electrical wiring or cell phone, dish and other antenna systems.

Another effective type of netting is called No-Knot Bird netting. It's roughly 70 percent stronger than conventional knotted polyethylene netting and it's also 30 percent lighter. No-Knot netting also has a higher melting point than knotted polyethylene netting. Overall, this type of netting is less expensive to ship and easier to install than regular netting. You also don't need to pull the net into shape, as is often the case with knotted polyethylene netting. Finally, this type of netting is best suited for larger, horizontal applications.

As with other netting, No-Knot netting comes in various mesh sizes. There's a 2-inch mesh to block out larger birds like pigeons, gulls and crows, and 3/4-inch mesh to stop smaller birds like sparrows and starlings.

The best No-Knot Bird Netting comes with a 10-year guarantee. It's made of a multi-strand polypropylene fiber that's highly resistant to heat and many chemicals. Netting like this is usually meets ISO 1806 Protocols. It will not rot, absorb water, or mildew. The netting contains U.V. inhibitors to withstand high temperatures to 338F.

Before installing any bird netting, clean the area thoroughly and make sure that it's free of nesting materials, bird droppings, feathers, peeling paint or other debris.

There are a number of ways to effectively install bird netting. The main thing to remember is to leave no gaps, openings, wrinkles or excessive sag in the netting. When installing the netting with a tensioned cable system, make sure the cables are properly installed and able to support the netting. Most bird netting can be cut to the size and shape using a good pair of scissors. Before cutting the netting, make sure to allow extra netting for perimeter fastening and overlap seams (6" min. for both). Finally, be sure you cut a larger piece of netting than what's needed for the job.