Choosing the right bird control method: Balancing pros and cons

Choosing the right bird control method involves evaluating the target area, bird population and level of pressure. Understand the pros and cons of the different bird management options available to make informed decisions that result in positive outcomes for your clients.

Bird Netting

Bird nets act as a physical barrier to exclude birds from open and semi-open areas like rooftops, balconies, gardens and more

Advantages:

• Suitable for large areas
• Suitable for various species and sizes
• Weatherproof
• Long-lasting

Disadvantages:

• Requires expertise and specialised equipment for effective installation
• If not installed or maintained properly, debris can accumulate and birds can get trapped behind the netting

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Bird Optical Gels

Bird repellent gels or bird optical gels are multi-sensory bird repellents that deter birds. They utilise UV light which is invisible to humans but appears similar to fire for birds, are made of a sticky substance that discourages birds from landing on them, and also smell like peppermint which birds dislike.

Advantages:

• Discreet
• Suitable indoors and outdoors
• Cost-effective
• Easy to install

Disadvantages:

• Relatively short longevity

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Bird Spikes

Bird spikes consist of protruding needle-like rods on a long, narrow base which deter birds from landing on window sills, ledges, signs or other flat surfaces.

Advantages:

• Humane deterrent
• Durable
• Easy to install
• Available in multiple widths for a variety of surfaces and bird sizes

Disadvantages:

• Unattractive
• Provide limited coverage
• Must be regularly cleaned to prevent debris accumulation
• May not be suitable for uneven surfaces
• Less effective for small birds

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Electric Deterrent System

Electrical bird deterrent tracks, like the Avishock system, condition birds to stay away from the area as they give a small, harmless electric shock when birds come into contact with it.

Advantages:

• Discreet
• Adaptable and flexible design to conform to any surface shape
• Weatherproof
• Long-lasting

Disadvantages:

• Are only economical above a certain size
• Must be connected to a power source
• Improper installation can lead to damage and short-circuiting of the system

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Bird Post and Wire Systems

Bird posts and wire systems consist of a series of parallel spring-tensioned wires designed to create an uneven and unstable landing surface for birds on ledges or flat roofs.

Advantages:

• Versatile
• Suitable for various surfaces
• Very discreet

Disadvantages:

• May not be suitable for smaller bird species or high pressure areas
• Requires expertise and specialised equipment for effective installation

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Sonic and ultrasonic repellents

These sound repellents emit noises that mimic predators, or use high frequencies that scare away or are irritating to birds.

Advantages:

• Humane
• Can be portable or temporary solutions

Disadvantages:

• Limited effectiveness for all species
• Create noise pollution for humans and pets
• May not provide long-term control

Chemical bird repellents

Chemical bird repellents are substances that once applied, create a feeling within the bird that the area is unsafe and threatening, discouraging them from landing or roosting.  

Advantages:

• Can cover large areas
• Humane and non-harmful to birds and other animals

Disadvantages:

• Can affect non-target species
• Environmental impact
• May require regular application

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Visual deterrents

Visual deterrents for birds are objects that scare or intimidate birds for example reflective devices or life-size models of natural predators.

Advantages:

• Cost-effective
• Easy to install
• Non-intrusive
• Environmentally friendly

Disadvantages:

• Objects may have to be frequently relocated or changed to maintain effectiveness as birds become familiarised to the visual deterrent over time and recognise them as non-threatening

Tailoring the best bird proofing method for your clients starts with weighing the pros and cons of each option against the needs of the property and the target bird species. For the best results, you may need to combine multiple methods. Explore Globe Pest Solutions’ wide range of bird control supplies online or chat to your local branch for personalised advice on the best bird management strategy for your job.