Bird Deterrents

There are many people who do not care if there are birds in their yard.  Actually, there are some who try and lure the bird with bird baths and bird feeders.  But, if you are not one of those people and are disgusted with the bird mess that is accumulating, there are safe and humane bird control measures that will block the birds from making your home their bathroom.

Reasons to Keep Pest Birds Away

Besides the ugly mess that bird droppings create, there is health risks associated with the accumulated bird droppings.   Crows, for example, can be a huge problem.   They are a very intelligent bird species.  Even though pigeons, sparrows, geese and grackles can be a nuisance, crows can be especially destructive when they come into contact with humans and structures that are not built as bird houses.  Crows have been known to damage airports and planes, so imagine what they do around the home.  Crows cause tens of millions of dollars of damage every year to machinery, automobiles, roofs, ventilation systems and roofs.  The droppings are very acidic and eat away at many substrates.  The bird droppings can damage siding, insulation, air conditioning units to name only a few locations.  It is especially a serious situation if the pest bird builds nests in chimneys and ventilation systems.  This can cause the spread of disease and block the air-flow.  Bird droppings are host to over 60 different types of infectious diseases.  Get rid of the pest bird before it is difficult to get rid of the aftermath they can leave behind.

Bird Control Netting and Diverters

Bird control netting is a bird control measure that is put into place where the pest bird is known to roost and nest.  Pest birds can be a big disturbance not only in the home, but the garden as well.  A lot of pest birds are very social birds and will often flock to your trees. Bird netting as well as anti roosting bird control is necessary to protect fruit trees, garden plants and building structures. 

Bird control netting on trees, bushes and garden plants is a solution that places the obstruction between the pest bird and your prize.  Bird netting is made from a U.V. protected polypropylene making it weather and sun resistant, effective and easy to install.  It is a versatile means of blocking a variety of pest birds as you can use a smaller mesh for your blueberry bushes, yet a larger mesh for tomato or zucchini plants.  It is practically invisible to the human eye and will not upset the aesthetics or functionality of the yard.  Placing bird control netting with scare diverters will protect against various species of pest bird.  Scare diverters over time might not actually scare the crow.  They adjust very easily to visual deterrents.  A mixing and matching of different bird control products is suggested with the crow.  Some birds, however, can be deterred easily with just scare diverters.  These pest bird diverters work for large and small pest birds.  They can be hung in fruit trees.  They can be placed sporadically around the yard using a simple wooden post or dowel with the diverters hanging from twine.  The movement of the light weight diverters with its shiny reflective surface and mock predator eye is what scares the birds away.  It is a very humane way to keep the birds away from the area.

There are also predator eye scare balloons that can be places strategically around like the scare diverters.  The scare balloons can be hung on the sides of the home, overhangs, balconies and patios.  Just like the diverters, the scare balloons have the design on the side that the bird believes to be a predator’s eye.  The bright colors and shiny surface confuse and frighten the bird and they will want to keep away from the areas where the scare balloons are placed. 

Bird Gel, Bird Slopes and Bird Spikes

Bird control products that help keep the pest bird from hiding away, building a nest and roosting are transparent bird gel and bird slopes.  The transparent bird get is a non-toxic substance that the birds cannot stand the sensation of.  They will be forced to move on to a different area to roost and perch.  Bird gel is ideal for locations such as ledges, eaves, beams and any horizontal surface where the pest bird may want to land. It is easy to apply using a caulking gun.  It will not harm any domestic animals or humans. 

Another safe option is the bird slope.  This anti-roosting and anti-perching deterrent will encompass most species of birds.  Bird slops can be placed under the eaves of the home where pest birds like to tuck their nests away.  It creates a “slippery slope” and birds will not be able to land on the surface, nor build their nests on them, therefore creating a secure barrier. 

Bird spikes are a successful way to get rid of the pest bird around your yard and structures.  They will prevent the larger pest birds like crows, seagulls and pigeons from landing where bird spikes are applied.  They work by creating an uneven surface that the birds cannot land on.  They will be forced to move on to more desirable location.  Bird spikes, when installed correctly, are virtually invisible.  They are placed on fence lines, rooftops, beams, under eaves and ledges.  The surface can be flat or curved.  There are stainless steel, plastic and spikes that are made specifically for the gutters of the home.  Plastic bird spikes come in various colors to match the structures.  There is white, tan, brick red, black and gray.  They are easily tied, screwed or glued into place. When the bird spikes are secure, so will your backyard vegetation. The pest bird will not be able to perch and look for their next food source which would have been your garden.

All the bird control products that are humane and safe for the pest bird, as well as the humans that may come in contact with them, are very versatile and will be successful in blocking and deterring the pest bird from staying around where he is not wanted.

Spring is the season that is referred to as a time of rebirth, regrowth and renewal.  Spring starts on different dates in different regions, but mostly spring is thought of as March, April and May.  Spring events include the significant warming that causes new plant growth to “spring forth.”  Flowering plants may start blooming this time of year.  With spring being the time for growth and renewal, this time is for plants as well as animals, including birds.  The chirping and fluttering sounds that can be heard outside your window are definite signs of spring, and a signal that major bird control measures need to be put into place. 

Birds chirp, cackle and honk to send out messages.  The noises mean they are setting up their territory.  They are letting other birds know this is where they are building their home with wife and children.  Canada geese are among the birds that use their springtime tune to mark their territory as well as attract a mate.  Woodpeckers springtime activity is the “drumming.”  The drumming of the male woodpecker is the way they attract the female and a way to establish their territory.

These wonderful creatures of nature, however, can become a pest.  A pest bird is defined as a bird that is in some way detrimental to people.  One bird sitting in the tree singing away is harmless.  But when a flock of birds such as the feral pigeon or starling invades the tree, this constitutes a concern.  This flock of birds will have large bird dropping messes under their roosts and can also plumage any vegetation you may have in your yard, whether it is seeds or a full blooming garden.  A woodpecker might be fun to watch drumming but if they begin drumming on a wood-sided home or a precious fruit bearing tree, it is a problem.  Grackles will be disposing of their waste in swimming pools.  Devising a strategy to discourage and prevent these pest birds from staying around and building their nests is simple and very affordable.  It is important to implement bird control measures before the nesting begins.  The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 makes it illegal to remove a nest once it is inhabited. 

3 Types of Bird Control Measures

Physical Bird Deterrents prevent pest birds from reaching areas they normally perch, roost or nest.  A physical bird deterrent can also protect vegetation and fruit trees.  Bird exclusion netting is a physical barrier that protects fruit trees, gardens, bushes and areas such as under the eaves of the home.  Bird exclusion netting is very versatile.  There are different mesh sizes to choose from depending on the bird species you will need to deter.  There is netting that is especially made for the garden.  It comes in rolls with mesh sizes of ¾”, ¼” and ½.”  It is durable, long lasting and very light weight making it easy to install.  Suspending the garden netting above the bushes and plants by around six inches ensures that the pest bird will not land on the netting and poke through the mesh to eat its harvest.  The garden netting can be suspended and attached to poles that are placed around the perimeter of the garden area using twine, zip ties or hog rings.  There is also woodpecker netting that can be installed on the sides of buildings to physically block the pest bird from drumming on the wood or stucco.  The woodpecker netting’s mesh is ¾” and small enough so the woodpecker cannot get through.  

Visual Bird Deterrents work by creating a visual distraction which confuses the pest bird and frightens them away. Reflective eye diverters do just that.  The bird diverter has a design on them that pest birds believe to be a predator’s eye.  It also has a shiny reflective surface.  Both the predator’s eye and the shiny surface work together to scare the bird away, and they will avoid the areas where the diverters are hung.  They would work well in trees, patios, overhangs, eaves.  They even work on boats.  Another similar type of visual bird deterrent is the scare balloon.  It is a vinyl balloon that is the size of an average beach ball that can be hung in just about all the same places.  If filled partially with water, it can float around the pool area and keeps birds away from the pool. The scare balloon also has the “mock” predator eye with a shiny surface.

Sound Bird Deterrents are programmable units that broadcast distress and predator calls that scare the birds in flight.  Their natural instincts when they hear their predator is to fight or flight, and since they are being tricked by the sound, the only option is for flight.  The sound deterrent is a way to deter pest birds from large open spaces.  The unit can be programmed to play over 22 different types of bird species.  It also has a general setting to play multiple bird species.  Adding speakers to the original unit can give bird control coverage up to 5-acres.  There are even units that specifically deter geese.  Geese can be very problematic in large open spaces, especially if there is a water source within the space. 

Look for the signs and be prepared for spring. Implement bird control before it is too late.  The early bird catches the worm, but early bird control deters the pest bird.

Deterring pest birds in spring is a smart move.  The longer the delay, the more likely the pest bird is going to build its nest.  Once the nests are built and active it is illegal to remove them according to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.  Even if the nests are in inconvenient locations or underneath the nest are piles of poop, it is still illegal.  Preventing pest birds from making your home or boat their home is as easy as applying bird control measures that will get rid of the pest bird and keep them away.  There are different ways to achieve the goal of getting rid of the birds.   There are visual bird scarers that frighten away the pest bird, physical deterrents that block them from the location and bird sound deterrents that trick and scare the pest bird into thinking they have come in contact with their predator or they are hearing distress calls from their own species.  There is a bird deterrent for every area that may become infested by the spring migratory bird.

Visual Bird Scarers

One bird that is a nuisance in spring is the woodpecker.  They attack the side of your home or other buildings, under eaves and in your trees.  There are woodpecker kits that contain visual scare devices that can be easily hung in the susceptible areas.  A vinyl balloon that is of bright colors and has a reflective surface can be hung in fruit trees, or any tree that the woodpecker and other pest birds are flocking to.  The scare balloon has an imprint on the side that appears to be a predator’s eye to the birds.  The colors and the reflective shiny surface cause a visual disturbance that the birds will want to avoid. They are easily installed by simply hanging them with twine.  They can even be partially filled with water and float in the backyard pool.  These scare balloons are often seen attached to post surrounding water holes on golf courses and parks to keep the pest duck away.  They can also be attached to the high points on a boat to keep the seagull from landing and making a mess with their droppings as they perch and roost or nest.

Flash tape is another type of visual bird deterrent that is included in the woodpecker kit.  Flash tape is a very effortless way to scare the birds away.  Flash tape is an iridescent red Mylar film.  When it moves in the breeze the sun reflects off the tape and creates a visual distraction zone to the bird.  It also has a crinkling sound that is annoying to the bird as well.  Flash tape is easily applied to trees, balconies, patios, overhangs and, again, the boat.  

Springtime brings about outdoor gardens and entertainment in the backyard.  A hawk decoy is a visual deterrent that can be place in the yard and garden.  The hawk is a life-like red-tailed decoy that scares birds away from these types of open areas.  The Red Tailed Hawks are known to hunt during daytime hours, so it is a very identifiable predator to most pest birds.  The hawk decoys are long lasting, made of durable plastic, that is meant for outdoor use.

Physical Bird Deterrents

A bird spider is both a visual deterrent as well as a physical bird deterrent.  A bird spider has “arms” like the arms of a spider, but the bird spider arms bounce around and sway with the breeze.  The movement of the bird spider is what creates the commotion that the birds do not like, and they will fly away from the area.  There are different sizes that will work in various areas around the home and boat.  The sizes are 2’ arms, 4’, 6’ and 8’.  The stainless steel arms stem from a round PVC Base.  There are special bases that are used specifically on boats that can be mounted on masts or spreaders.  Other places bird spiders can be used are near pools and Jacuzzis, rooftops, air conditioning units and skylights to only name a few.  

Another bird control product that is similar to the bird spider is a solar bird repeller.  The idea is the same, moving “arms” that distract and frighten the birds away. The solar bird repeller has a 5-ft telescoping “arm” that spins continuously.  This would keep the bird away day and night.  Getting the solar bird repeller to work properly only takes a full day of sun to charge the rechargeable batteries that keeps the power stored during dark periods.  The solar bird repeller is very easily installed and can be secured to a flat or angled surface.  They are also ideal on boats, especially those boats that are docked in the water.  Often times the repellers are mounted onto the edges of docks themselves.  You can also mount them onto roofs, skylights and air conditioning units.  

Bird Sound Deterrents

Bird sound deterrents are devices that are designed to get rid of pest birds in large open areas.  A large backyard with a beautiful garden would be the perfect instance to use a bird sound deterrent.  A bird sound deterrent can be programmed to play over 22 different types of species.  The sounds that are played are distress sounds and predators calls.  When the birds hear these sounds and calls, their natural born instinct is to flee the area.  Common birds that can be programmed are woodpeckers, pigeons, sparrows, crows and starlings and grackles.  The bird sound deterrents are sun and weather resistant for outdoor use.  With adaptable speakers, the coverage of bird control is up to 5-acres.  A lot of families are fortunate enough to live in areas with wide open spaces and sometimes even ponds in the backyards.  The bird sound deterrent is ideal in this type of location.  It will even keep the geese out of the pond. If the geese are the main problem in the area, there is a bird sound deterrent that is made specifically to keep the geese away.

Bird proofing the home and boat, small yards and larger areas is a safe and humane way to keep the birds away so that when spring is sprung, the bird deterrents are in action and the bird dropping mess stays away from your area, and outdoor activities are clean, safe and peaceful.

Joining in the ranks of boat ownership is a great feeling.  There is no better sensation than taking the vessel out into the open sea in spring time; the cool wind whipping past your face, feeling the slight sprinkles of salt water on your skin.  Along with the fun comes responsibility.  Boating is a sport that can be time consuming and expensive.  With the cost of gas, life jackets, licenses and permits, fishing gear and insurance to name a few, taking care of what you have requires groundwork.

Maintenance is a key factor for boat owners.  Spring is the time of year for the annual preparation and cleaning for millions of boat owners.  Annual maintenance prevents problems and delays in getting the boat out into the open sea.  Bird control should always be included along with the yearly checkup of safety gear, fuel systems and fluid levels.  There are two different bird control methods that will keep your boat bird free. 

Visual Bird Deterrents   

    Reflective Bird Diverters

Visual bird deterrents that will help achieve a bird free boat consist of methods that will scare the bird away and get rid of the bird from your boat.  Visual bird deterrents such as reflective bird diverters, predator eye scare balloons and flash tape are objects that can be hung on the railings, and especially any high areas on the boat.    Reflective bird diverters frighten the bird away with the mock predator eye design and the shiny reflective surface.  Both work in unison to make the pest bird visually uncomfortable.  It is effective for both small and larger bird species.  They are durable and can be left in use and can also be easily stored away. 

    Predator Eye Scare Balloon

The scare balloon acts as a bird deterrent in the same way as the hanging bird diverters.  The scare balloon is a vinyl balloon.  It is about the same size as the average beach ball that children play with.  It has very bright colors that are very easy for the pest birds to see.  The design on the side of the scare balloon is a mock predator eye.  The vinyl material also makes the scare balloon have a shiny reflective surface.  All features of the balloon will have the pest bird confused and frightened.  They will fly around this visual distraction to avoid the area and stay away.

    Flash Tape

Again, scaring the bird away, not harming them is the goal of strategic bird control.  Mylar flash tape that is an iridescent red will do the trick.  Strips of flash tape can be placed anywhere on the boat, the higher the better.  Like the diverters and scare balloons, the flash tape creates that visual disturbance for the pest bird.  Not only does the flash tape move in the breeze having the sun reflect of the tape causing irritation to the bird’s sense of sight, but there is a sound when the flash tape moves.  It is a crinkling like sound that is another irritant that they will want to avoid.  As for the boater, the flash tape and other visual deterrents create almost a festive look on the boat; if you happen to notice them at all it is a very unassuming way to keep your boat bird free.

Physical Bird Deterrents

You might be asking yourself about ensuring a bird free boat at night when it is dark out and there is no breeze.  A physical bird deterrent is something that blocks the pest bird from any given area.  This would be a successful means of keeping a bird free boat during dark times.  There are cross between bird control products that address both visual and physical deterrents.

Solar Bird Repeller

A solar bird repeller only takes a full day of sun to charge the 2-AA rechargeable batteries that will last during the dark periods.  The solar powered bird deterrent uses continuous movement to get rid of the pest birds.  The solar bird repeller is a portable unit that has a 5 foot long “arm” that spins continually when turned on.  The movement of the arm is what keeps the birds away from the area.  The “arm” movement is the physical aspect that keeps the bird from landing and movement is the visual disturbance that frightens them away. 

    Bird Spider

A bird spider works the same way as a solar bird repeller in the aspect as it acts as both a physical deterrent as well as a visual deterrent.  The bird spider has optional bases, including a boat base for easy installation on masts or spreaders.  You can purchase this bird deterrent in four different sizes depending on the area you are protecting.  The bird spider’s “arms” come in 2’, 4’, 6’ and 8’ sizes.  These “arms” move and bounce around in the breeze.  The movement keeps the birds, especially larger birds such as seagulls, from landing near the movement.  Again, they are frightened away.

Scare tactics to get rid of birds to obtain a bird free boat does not harm the pest bird.  It is a safe and humane way to protect your investment of the vessel.  The low cost of the physical and visual bird deterrents will keep you boating all year long.  Making it a part of your winterizing and de-winterizing check list will make certain that your boat will not only be clean but safe a bird free.

Why do people garden when they can go to a farmer’s market or the local grocery store to get fruit and vegetables and go to the corner flower shop to pick out beautiful cut flowers?  Gardening is really an art that has been past down for thousands of years.  Gardening at one time was about the need for food.  Back in the 16th and 17th century, ideas about gardening changed from need to also symmetry, proportion and balance.  The Renaissance gardener adorned their gardens with sculptures, fountains and topiary.  Water organs played music that often times imitated bird songs.  One has to wonder if the problems current gardeners face in reference to bird control was an issue back then. 

Keeping birds out of the garden is a necessity for most gardeners.  There are many benefits of a bird in the vegetable garden.  Certain birds eat insects, worms, aphids, caterpillars, slugs which are known to destroy roots and leaves of the vegetable plants.  Larger birds such as crows even swoop down and pick up mice here and there.  The benefit of birds in the garden does not outweigh the disadvantage however.  Crows can also swoop down, perch and eat the seeds you have planted.    Pest birds also eat all kinds of berries and fruits.  Sometimes it is not just one or two birds, but starlings for example, congregate in large groups and can cause devastation if the garden is not protected.

Protecting the garden does not have to consist of loud noises, such as gun shots or placing barbed wire around the plants, to get rid of the birds.  There are many safe and humane physical bird deterrent options to create your own individualized bird control system.

Bird Control Options

Physical bird deterrents are a type of bird control that will physically block birds from the area that you are trying to keep the birds away from.  Bird spikes are a great example of a physical bird deterrent.  When protecting the garden area, bird spikes can be placed on the rooftop edges or patio covering.  They can be installed on any flat surface where the birds may perch.  Perching pest birds have their eyes open for their next snack or meal.  If they are sitting on the rooftop ledge, they have the perfect bird’s eye view of your bounty.  Using bird spikes will prevent the larger birds like the pigeons, crows and gulls from landing on the area.  There are different kinds of bird spikes, stainless steel bird spikes and plastic bird spikes.  Both kinds are virtually invisible when installed correctly.  They come in different widths and sizes to accommodate your specific structure.  Plastic bird spikes come in a variety of colors such as brick red, light grey, tan, brown and white and black.  They will blend in perfectly with your home or business and only the birds will know they are there. 

Bird netting is another physical bird deterrent that will save your garden and keep the birds blocked from getting to your fruits and vegetable plants, including fruit trees.  It is a very easy and low profile method to include as part of your individualized bird control system.  Garden bird netting has different mesh sizes; ¾”, ¼” and ½” sizing.  It is U.V. protected and durable and will last the season.  It comes in convenient large rolls that can be cut to size depending on your gardening projects.  It is recommended that the garden bird netting be installed in a way where it is suspended over the berry bushes or vegetable plants.   Suspension of about 6 inches will give enough room between the plant and the garden bird netting in case a bird decides to rest upon the netting.  The pest bird will not be able to get at anything beyond the mesh.  The garden bird netting can be easily suspending using a series of poles placed around the garden area.  The netting can then be secured to the poles using twine, hog rings or zip ties.  Plants can even be wrapped individually for protection.

Physical bird deterrents will not only protect your garden but your entire backyard, including your patio.  When birds are allowed to congregate, what you are going to get is a whole lot of poop.  Bird droppings bring about an entirely different problem.  They harbor fungus and disease.   A person can become very ill when they come into contact with the dust that can be created by the bird droppings.  Elderly and younger children are especially susceptible to the diseases.

It is well known that gardening is beneficial to one’s body as well as one’s mind.  It is truly a labor of love for a lot of people, and it has been for centuries.  It is a stress reliever and very personally satisfying to watch blooms begin, and eventually taste what is grown by your own hands.  Protecting this investment of time and money can easily be accomplished by the simple plan of a physical deterrent used to get rid of the pest birds and to keep them away.  Safe, humane and strategic bird control should be in everybody’s garden.

Spring is in the air, and so are the seagulls.  Boats are in the water, and the challenge is to keep seagulls off boat decks, gunwales, masts, spreaders and canvases.  Not only seagulls, but cormorants and even pigeons love to use boats for their waterfront perch.  Doesn’t everyone love a waterfront view?  It is important to keep seagulls off boats because of the mess they leave behind.  Bird droppings are a nasty mess.  Boat owners who do not use any kind of bird deterrent system will find themselves spending a significant amount of time cleaning up the bird droppings before each boat launch.  This situation happens all too often, and it does not have to occur.  To keep seagulls off boat decks and other areas takes only a little strategy and a little time.

A safe and humane seagull deterrent system is in need.  One of the best and safest strategies to keep seagulls off boat areas is to scare them away.  It seems simple, right?  It actually is simple.  Scaring the pest birds away is a very smart strategy and reputable bird control companies have seagull deterrent systems that do just that. 

The reason to keep seagulls off boat areas and any other area for that matter, besides the unsightly mess, is to keep the area free from disease.  Accumulated bird droppings notoriously harbor fungus and disease.   The high nutrient substance of pest bird droppings creates a playground for prospectively dangerous organisms.  Diseases such as E. coli, cryptococcosis and Histoplasmosis are found in the droppings.   Meningitis, septicemia and pneumonia can be caused by these diseases.  You can become infected by breathing in the spores from the dust created by disturbed bird droppings.  Keeping seagulls off boat areas will keep these diseases away from your family and any passengers you may invite on board. 

Strategy begins with the type of bird deterrent that is needed.  If you want to keep seagulls off boat day and night a solar bird repeller would do the trick.  The solar bird repeller scares the pest birds away by the movement of the 6-foot telescoping “arm” that spins continuously.  It can be easily mounted on any flat or angled surface.   You want to make sure the unit is secured properly.  If not, the excess winds can tip the repeller.  It can be mounted using screws.  It can also be mounted using bungee cords and tie downs.  The bungee cords are the best way to secure the solar bird repeller to uneven surfaces.  It also makes for very easy removal.  There is a simple on and off switch on the back of the unit.  Prior to the installation, the repeller needs to be charge in full sun light for a minimum of 8 hours.  This also pre-charges the batteries.

Before you put into action the solar bird repeller which will keep seagulls off boat areas, you will want to clean any bird droppings that may already be there.  The use of a commercial disinfectant cleaning agent is recommended.  This type of cleaning agent reduces the exposure to the airborne diseases mentioned above.  Also eliminating any variables such as food and water will help keep seagulls off boat areas.  They are scavengers and will go after just about anything.

Frightening birds away from any area is one of the best strategies out there.  There are laws governing the protection of bird species.  Most people’s aim is not to harm the bird but to humanely keep seagulls of boat areas and all other areas as well.  Solar bird repellers can easily be used for docks and swim platforms.  They work well for A.C. units, roofs and skylights as well.  Wherever there is a problem with a pest bird, there is a bird control solution.


   

Winter is giving way to spring which will eventually turn into summer.  Plans are made to take the boat out before dawn for that first early morning fishing excursion of the year.  Bate and tackle are ready.  On the way to the dock the check list is running through your mind.  Life jackets are on board.  Flashlight is ready for loading the boat and the ice chest is packed with drinks and snacks.  You think you are ready to go out on the water for the day.  But, one thing on your mental list is eating away at you.    Is the seagull deterrent system still in place?

The most effective bird deterrent is a seagull deterrent system that keeps the birds completely off the boat.  If birds are allowed to perch, roost and nest on the vessel, more than likely there is damage and cleanup to take care of before the boat is water worthy and people safe.  If the proper seagull deterrent system is not in place, it is going to be a later morning start on the fishing excursion.

Bird droppings that are allowed to accumulate will cause damage.  The damage is not just aesthetic.  Bird droppings are very acidic and will eat through materials that most people believe can never be damaged, especially damaged by bird poop; metals, wood, canvas and all other materials on the vessel.  Another hazard of the unsightly bird droppings is the amount of bacterial and fungal infections that can be passed to humans.  The high nutrient content of seagull droppings provides an excellent sanctuary for potentially harmful organisms. The very young and very old are more susceptible, but all ages are vulnerable.  The main disease causing organisms found in seagull droppings are E. coli, Histoplasmosis, Psittacosis and Cryptococcosis.  If a seagull deterrent system is not in place and these organisms are present, they can cause meningitis, peritonitis, septicemia and pneumonia.  People become infected by inhaling dust containing the dried droppings.  Always use caution when cleaning up any bird dropping.

Seagull deterrent systems are available to everyone.  Not just professional commercial boats.  Every boat should have a seagull deterrent system in place.  A reputable bird deterrent supply company will have products which will suit your individual needs.   One highly effective seagull deterrent system is the bird spider.   There is no poison involved for this spider.  The bird spider is quite safe and a very humane way to keep seagulls off boats.    The bird spider creates a visual distraction that frightens the seagulls and other birds such as pigeons and cormorants away.  The bird spider bird deterrent has “arms” made of stainless steel.  The bird spider is sold in four different sizes:  2’, 4’, 6’ and 8’.   The size of the “arms” will depend on the size of the boat and the area where you want the spider installed.  Do not let the term “installation” scare you either.  The bird spiders come pre-assembled.  The base can either be glued down to a flat surface or they can be easily attached to the rail with railing mounts.  If any type of installation questions need answering a reputable bird control company will have professional installers that can offer you advice. 

The proper seagull deterrent system will eliminate the need to cancel or delay your fishing excursive to clean, disinfect and repair any damage from the bird droppings.  Don’t let fishing be for the birds!   Having a seagull deterrent system working for you will keep you at the helm.

One could say that seagulls perform a very valuable service.  They scavenge near fishing boats, picnic areas, parking lots and anywhere there may be left over food.  They will clean up the crumbs and messes.  Watching the acrobatic birds flying around in the sky with their motionless floating, midair, as they catch wind currents can be mesmerizing. 

But clean is not an adjective you would use in an area where seagulls are flying around, unless, of course, there was a seagull deterrent system in place.  There are many places in this huge world for birds to fly free and have full access and use of.  There is no need to feel guilty at having a safe and humane seagull deterrent system in use to rid the pest bird from your property or boat.

As much as they are fun to watch, equally, it can be very burdensome and somewhat dangerous to have bird droppings accumulate on your property or boat.  An accumulation of bird droppings can be not only unsightly and damaging to the boat’s surface, but accumulated bird droppings are quite dangerous to one’s health.  Not only are they a play ground for ticks, mites, fleas, bedbugs and other ectoparasites, but humans and other animals are susceptible to diseases such as Histoplasmosis and over 60 other transmittable diseases.  Histoplasmosis, for example, is a disease that is transmitted by breathing in spores from the dust when the droppings are disturbed.  This disease can cause respiratory conditions as serious as a slight cough to death.  Those who are immune suppressed are at a higher risk of obtaining these diseases, but everyone is vulnerable. 

Seagull deterrent systems are simple to install.  There are various combinations of bird control devices depending on the area that needs protection.  For a smaller boat, a bird spider with free moving arms would easily scare the pest bird away.  Not just gulls, but pigeons and crows will stay away from this seagull deterrent system at work.  A bird spider is a visual bird deterrent.  A visual deterrent is something the bird sees that will scare them away.  The arms come in sizes ranging from 2’ to 8’.  These long, thin arms bounce and sway in the breeze creating a visual disturbance for the birds.  They will not want to perch and roost with constant movement of the arms.  Since the seagull deterrent system will be outside, make sure the product purchased is of good quality and long lasting. Look for U.V. protection for your products.  Stainless steel arms on a bird spider will ensure a product that can endure in weather.

Installation of a bird spider, if you want to call it that, is simply either gluing down the base of the system or mounting the unit on rails.  There is also a removable sand bag base that can be attached to the base of the boat.  Glue, brackets or screws; that is all it takes to keep your boat free from seagulls.  

A seagull deterrent system such as the bird spider will free your time, and instead of cleaning up bird droppings time and time again, you will have more hours out on the water enjoying yourself.  Clean air, clean boat and free sailing; does not sound like a bad way to spend the day!

Most people think of the seagull on the beach.  If there is any food near, they are hovering above, waiting until they can snatch it up.  Leaving behind your lunch remains on the towel while rinsing off in the ocean will most likely leave you with no remains left at all; the seagull will steal what is left behind as soon as you walk away.  Seagulls are known to be scavengers.  They have been referenced as garbage men with wings.   

Boat bird control is on the forefront of every captain and boat owner out there.  Seagulls are notorious to captains of boats and boat owners.  The more a bird eats, the more the bird poops.  The seagull is a huge eater which creates a huge mess if boat bird control is not in place.   Seagulls and other pest birds are drawn to boats where they find many areas, high and low, to roost and nest.    They will often perch and roost on the boat rigging, antennas and the projecting parts of the vessel.  The bird droppings that fall down onto the boat itself will damage the paint, wood, canvas and any other material the droppings land on.  Boat bird control in place is essential in keeping a healthy boat afloat.

Having boat bird control in place will guarantee your boat will be ready for use when you return to the docks to take it out.  Time and time again boaters spend too much time cleaning up their boat before they can even take it out of the dock.  With boat bird control in action, even when you are not near the boat, it is keeping birds away, which means keeping the nests and droppings at bay.

Successful boat bird control consists of physical bird deterrents.  A physical and visual deterrent is a method that frightens the pest seagulls away when they see a visual distraction.  Flash tape is an example of a type of visual bird deterrent that can be put on the boat to keep birds away.  The flash tape is made from an iridescent red foil Mylar tape.  The glossy reflective surface of the tape when it is moving with the breeze scares the birds away from the tape.  The flash tape makes a “crinkling” sound that is an irritant to the bird and they fly away from the sound also.

A bird spider is another visual bird deterrent method that works well on boats.  The bird spider has a base which can either be a sandbag base or can be mounted on the boat’s surface and the railing.  The bird spider deterrent has stainless steel “arms” that move with the breeze.  The movement of the “arms” creates an area that frightens the birds away.  They will not want to perch, roost or build a nest anywhere near this type of boat bird control method. 

When the vessel is in a more secluded area that may not be affected by the breeze, a solar bird repeller is another visual bird deterrent option.  The solar bird repeller has moving 5 foot long flexible “arms” that move using solar-power.  Even in the dark quiet evening, boat bird control is in action.  The solar unit comes with an on and off switch and can be switched off when the boat is in use.  It only takes 8 hours in full sun to pre-charge the batteries.

For best results, using the spider or repeller along with either the Mylar flash tape or a visual scare diverter to ensure full exclusion for your vessel.  The unsanitary conditions that come with bird droppings is not something you want to deal with.  Boating should be fun and carefree.  Using boat bird control visual deterrents will make sure to keep the pest gulls away creating clean and fun boating.

“Free as a bird.”  That is a very common quote.  What does it mean?  When it comes to pest birds it means the bird has no boundaries.  It means the pest bird can fly and perch, nest and roost wherever they find contentment.  Creating an uncomfortable area with bird control is the safe and humane way to get rid of birds.

Reason for Bird Control

One of the main reasons it is important to put bird control into action is that pest birds can do a lot of damage.   Birds like to roost and nest in the trees, roofs and eaves.  The destruction they leave in their wake can be quite expensive and put you at a health risk.   What they leave behind are their white pasty droppings.  Accumulated bird droppings are known to harbor over 60 different types of viral, bacterial and fungal diseases.  The diseases transfer to humans and can generate seriously illnesses.  West Nile Virus is one such illness and can cause severe neurological effects that may be permanent.  Cryptococcosis and Histoplasmosis are two yeast-like funguses that can be acquired from the bird droppings.  The bird droppings are also highly acidic and corrosion will take place wherever they fall.  They will corrode paint, wood, steel and even concrete.   You can imagine the time and cost to replace or repair the damaged areas.  Bird control will not only keep that unsightly mess from existing, but will also protect against the development of health problems.

How to Bird Proof

It is first necessary to assess the property that is being invaded by the birds.  Are there trees that are full of birds?  Are they perched on top of an awning in wait of food spillage?  Maybe the problem area is under the eaves.  No matter where the pest bird is a problem, there are bird proof methods to deter the birds and soon they will fly right on over and beyond your property.    There are basically three types of bird deterrent methods.

Physical Bird Deterrents

A physical bird deterrent is simply a bird control product that blocks the bird from its desired landing spot.  Bird spikes are a good example of a physical bird deterrent.  Bird spikes are very successful in keeping away the large pest birds such as pigeons, crows and gulls and keeping them from perching, nesting and roosting.  Construction grade adhesive will secure them down to concrete, steel and brick.  Screws can be used to secure them to wood surfaces.  They are virtually invisible when installed correctly.  What helps with the aesthesis as well is the plastic bird spikes come in various different colors to match their surroundings.  They also come in various widths and lengths that fit it just about any area that has a flat or slanted surface.   They are especially ideal for use on a patio covering where there is al fresco dining or even your own home patio coverings.

Bird netting is another physical bird deterrent that works especially well for protecting vegetation.  Many vineyards use bird netting to protect the precious grapes from being eaten by the birds.  It is recommended that you suspend the netting over the vines by at least 6 inches.  This prevents the birds from landing on the mesh and putting their beaks through the mesh to get at the fruit.  Bird netting is also proven to deter the pest bird from home gardens and fruit trees.  Heavy duty bird netting is ideal for warehouses, garages, rooftops, factories and bridges.  Heavy duty bird netting is professional grade bird netting.  Most bird netting is made of a U.V. stabilized mesh, rot proof, water proof and flame resistant.

Visual Bird Deterrents

Visual bird deterrents create an optical illusion that scares the pest birds away from the area.  Visual deterrents such as a diverter or scare balloons have a printed design on the sides of them which, to a bird, look like a predator’s eye.  The mock predator eye design on the visual deterrents confuses and frightens the birds.  In turn, they fly away and will want to avoid the area.  They can be hung along the side of homes, buildings, in trees and even on boats to get rid of the pest bird.  Flash tape is another visual deterrent that can quickly be applied.  It is a iridescent red foil Mylar tape that that can be cut into strips and attached to trees, outdoor patios and pool areas to name only a few places.  The tape moves in the breeze and makes a crinkling sound which simply frightens the bird away.  Using the same principle, solar powered bird repellers can be placed on signs, streetlights, A.C. units and swim platforms.  The solar bird repeller uses movement to scare away the birds.  It has 5-foot telescoping “arms” that spin continuously.  The rotating arms move even at night using solar power, but it also has rechargeable batteries for operation during dark periods.  The repeller is easy to mount and can even be mounted on an angled surface.

Sound Bird Deterrents

Sound bird deterrents are for large open spaces such as courtyards, warehouses, patios, backyards and even golf courses.  A sound device plays distress and predator calls.  Like the visual deterrents, the sound deterrents, too, scare away the birds.  The units can be programmed to broadcast over 22 different types of bird species.  If you are unsure as to which bird to deter, there is a “general” setting that covers a multitude of bird species.  There are additional adaptable speakers that will cover up to a six acre area.

Physical, visual and sound deterrents get rid of birds in unwanted areas.  There is no harm done to the bird or installer.  Using humane bird control methods is abiding by the law.  It is unlawful to remove birds once they have built a nest.  It is important to start thinking of installing bird control products in early spring before they make themselves at home at your place of business or home. 

What is the commonality between houses, hotels, restaurants, golf courses, parks?  They are all susceptible as targets for pest birds!  It is nearly impossible to avoid the pest birds and all they leave behind.  Birds can be quite beneficial to our environment at opportune times.  Just like when you are the zoo and signs are posted to not feed some of the animals, the same is true with feral birds.  It is wise to not encourage the pest birds in areas where the public congregate such as businesses, restaurants, especially where outdoor dining is available.

You might ask yourself what is the harm in a little bird.  What harm can they do?  Well, plenty of harm can come from pest birds, or more aptly put, bird poop.  Most birds travel and make their homes in flocks.  Birds have a very high metabolism meaning they process their food very quickly; hence, they eat a lot for their little size.  But do not let their size fool you.  They poop a lot because of the high metabolism. Before your business or home is in deep doo-doo as a result of the feathered foe, put bird control measures in action.

Early spring is a perfect time of year to install bird control products.  Make sure it is early enough and before the birds start their nests, or you will have to wait until the babies have hatched and have flown away.  The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 makes it unlawful to get rid of birds during their nesting period, including misdemeanor charges for doing so.

Bird spikes used on ledges, porticos and on window sills, especially on multiple storied buildings, will keep the pest birds from roosting and nesting.  Bird spikes create an un-even surface making it virtually impossible for the bird to land.  Bird spikes are nearly invisible and are humane and safe to use and install, and humane and safe for the bird.  This will help to keep the building free from the distinctive and ugly white pasty bird poop. Plastic bird spikes will fit in easily with the surroundings and will be practically invisible from the ground.  They come in various colors such as crystal clear, white, tan, black, brown, light grey and brick rid.  Bird spikes are a permanent solution for the bird control problem.  Bird spikes are U.V. protected, sun and weather proof making this bird control product a viable one for high rise buildings that are in the sun all day and the weather elements of any season. 

Another very proven and successful bird control product is a sound deterrent.  A sound deterrent works quite well in an open outdoors area.  It has pre-recorded distress calls from many different species of birds.  It is the “scare” factor that makes the sound deterrent work.  The birds hear predator and distress calls and believe they are in jeopardy.  Their natural instincts are to fly away.  This is considered a very humane tactic for bird control.  Sound deterrents, also known has Sonic units are the latest technology in pest bird control.  When additional speakers are added to the original sonic unit, up to six acres have bird control coverage.  The LCD display panel makes it very user friendly and easily programmed.  If you are unsure about which type of bird is the nuisance, there is a general setting that will cover a multitude of bird species.  You can also program over 22 different individual species to play.  It can be programmed to play the bird calls day or night at timely intervals. 

Using simple bird control products in tandem with each other will double your rate of success and more than double the chance of not having to spend the thousands of dollars many companies and homeowners spend each year cleaning up the bird poop damage that the pest bird generates.  Many times public safety is at risk, so bird control is imperative.  It does not have to be difficult, yet at times may seem overwhelming.  That is when a bird control expert comes in handy with extensive knowledge of the bird control processes.  Do whatever it takes to control pest birds successfully, it will pay off.

There are major problems associated with pest birds.  Municipalities, vineyards and groves all continuously have problems with pest birds when there is no bird control measure in place.  Birds are labeled pest birds when their presence interferes with business or pleasure.  The interference can be quite detrimental to both health and property. 

The bird’s feces are what cause damage to the property.  Without bird netting to protect against roosting and nesting pest birds, these birds will roost and nest leaving behind their feces.  Birds excrete their feces in the form of uric acid rather than urea.  The uric acid exits in the form of crystals that look like white paste.  When you see the spattering of this white paste all over, you know that this is an area in trouble.  Birds have an extremely high metabolism rate and they need to eat large amounts of food.  This entails large amounts of poop.  It can accumulate quite quickly when there are large roosts.  Uric acid is corrosive and will eat through and damage awnings, concrete, metals, wood and paint.  The unsightly mess will be quite costly to clean and repair.  Having bird netting in pin point locations will discourage the bird from roosting and nesting.

Another major hazard of bird poop on your property is the health issues that can arise from the accumulate feces. There are fungal diseases such as Histoplasmosis that humans can be susceptible to when coming into contact with dried bird feces.  It is transmitted by breathing in the spores that are released when the bird droppings are disturbed.  Mites, bedbugs, ticks and other insects that can cause disease and discomfort can be found in bird debris, roosts and nests. 

It is easy to see how damage to produce and food can come to be.  Bird netting will save vineyards and groves from the unwanted pecking of the pest bird, deeming the fruit and product useless.  Bird netting is a simple solution to a huge problem. 

Bird netting will exclude a wide range of bird species.   There are different kinds of bird netting as well, heavy-duty bird netting and no-knot bird netting.  There is even special netting made to block bats.  There is 4 inch mesh that works well for gulls, 1 1/8 inch mesh that is successful in deterring blackbirds and starlings, and then ¾ inch mesh for the smaller sparrows and swallows.  There are various weights of the bird netting and various colors as well.  The various colors can be matched to the area that the bird netting is protecting, making it virtually invisible.  The various colors of the netting will blend in extremely well with the aesthetics of the environment. High quality netting is made with specially treated polyethylene and is U.V. protected.  Most netting is also rot-proof, waterproof, flame resistant and sub-zero stable. 

Following specific guidelines when installing any bird netting will increase effectiveness. For instance, when protecting vineyards, it is advices to allow for space between the plant and the bird netting.   This will keep the bird from perching on the netting itself and poking its beak down between the netting to get at the fruit.  The bird netting can be easily suspending above the vines which are attached to poles that are secured into the ground.  When applying bird netting to areas of buildings such as eaves, make sure the netting is secured without leaving any drooping or sagging areas where the pest bird can breach the barrier. 

As you can see, one very effective resolution is bird netting. It is both humane and environmentally friendly, leaving behind pesticides and aroma repellants which can harm birds, and in many areas it is illegal to do so.  Apart from of your pest bird problem, the advantages of bird netting are diverse.

Birds can be beneficial and a wonderful melodious addition to our environment at times.  When they decide to roost, perch and nest, and their droppings start to accumulate, this is when they are considered pests and should be excluded from your business and home.  When bird control is not put into place business owners and home owners will spend a lot of money and time cleaning up after the feathered foe.    It is not only unpleasant to look at, but bird droppings are quite hazardous.  There are over 60 transmittable diseases that can be spread that stem from the bird’s droppings.  Before the droppings become hard and dust like, they are quite slippery.  There are documented cases of employees and customers having slip and fall accidents from stepping on fresh bird droppings.  It is important to initiate a bird control solution such as bird netting before the pest bird calls your property home.  If you do not install bird netting in time, you will have to wait usually an entire season.  Most birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.  It is illegal to remove birds and nest when there are babies in the nests.  The statue of 1960 amended its penalty provision by stipulating, “…violations of this Act would constitute a misdemeanor and conviction would result in a fine of not more than $500.00 or imprisonment of not more than six months.”

Bird control implemented early spring will ensure that bird exclusion is legal.  Bird netting can be installed in areas such as warehouses, overhangs, rooftops, eaves and even airline hangars.  Bird netting will offer 100% exclusion of pest birds.  Bird netting comes in various difference mesh sizes and several different colors.  There are also several types of bird netting available.

Heavy Duty Netting

Heavy duty bird netting is constructed of heavy duty polyethylene.  It is made from a U.V. stabilized mesh.  It is long lasting and extremely durable.  It is rot proof, water proof and flame resistant.  It is ISO 1806 Protocol mesh tested and is “sub-zero” stable and non-conductive.  This type of netting comes in three different mesh sizes, 2” mesh, 1 1/8” mesh and ¾” mesh.  It is commonly installed in commercial and industrial areas as it is specified in many architectural plans.

No Knot Netting

No knot bird netting is very similar to heavy duty netting.  It is also U.V. protected, durable and long lasting.  It is very light weight yet super strong with break strength of 50 pounds.    No knot bird netting is flame resistant and is a multi-strand polypropylene fiber.  It is effective in wide temperature ranges from -250F – 338F.  It has two different mesh sizes, 2” and ¾”.  

Bat Netting

Many attics, garages and warehouses are homes to bats.  Bat netting is made especially to exclude bats from entering any unwanted area.  It is stronger than other netting and comes in a 3/8” knotted black mesh.  It is available in many different sizes in order to cover many bat exclusion needs.

Installation

Installation in commercial buildings can get complicated.  Netting in large open spaces will require thousands of square feet in netting and special equipment.  Selecting a bird control company that has access to professional bird control installers is recommended.

Every year, homeowners, businesses and municipalities are hit with millions of dollars in costs of repairing and clean up from damage done by the pest bird.  Cleaning up bird droppings is not as simple as wiping down an area with over the counter cleaners or sweeping them away with a broom.  Pest bird droppings are often considered a hazardous waste.  A high potency disinfectant such as Microcide SQ is a cleaner that is safe for food and non food surfaces.  It is a disinfectant that is approved by the USDA.  It fights against over 100 difference diseases, yeast, molds, bacteria and viruses.  It is important to spray the soiled area and wet it thoroughly before it is removed.  You want to protect yourself from breathing in any of the particles that may have become dried up.  Bird droppings carry over 60 known ailments to affect humans.  It is always wise to place protection over your mouth and nose while cleaning up this hazardous waste.

Once the bird droppings are all cleaned up, bird control can be put into place.   Bird netting is a proven physical barrier that is effective in both large indoor and outside areas.  Bird netting will keep the pest bird from invading warehouses, storage yards, patios, courtyards and other large areas.  If bird netting is put into place there will not be any cleanup or repair costs.  Nor will there be slip and fall accidents from slippery bird droppings which could potentially turn into very expensive personal injury settlements.

Another area where bird netting would keep pest birds away is outdoor seating areas at restaurants.  Birds will perch and wait for the opportunity, or sometimes for us, inopportune moments to swoop down and pick up dropped food and crumbs.  If bird droppings are on the outdoor furniture, or upon the entryways into the restaurant, this will surely hinder business, and make the restaurant vulnerable to a written citing from the health inspector.

Bird infestations in factory and warehouses can halt and even stop production.  The same is true for airplanes.  Incidents of pest birds being sucked into the plane’s jet engines is in the news all the time.  Bird netting used in these incidents will thwart catastrophes.  Bird netting used in airport hangers and terminals will stop the bird debris from getting into engine parts.  Protecting the roofs, ventilations systems, security cameras and solar panels with bird netting will stop the incident of pest bird destruction.  It is also imperative to protect any wiring or electrical equipment to prevent fires caused by birds that are allowed to nest near anything electrical.

It is important to look for netting that is flame resistant, rot proof and water proof.  There are manufacturers who produce bird netting that has a 250oF melting point and can hold up in sub-zero temperatures.  Bird netting also comes in a variety of sizes and colors.  It will be virtually invisible from the ground when the correct bird netting is installed correctly. 

Installation of bird netting is fairly easy.  You can anchor the bird netting to an overhead fixture.  Make certain to completely enclose the area without any gaps or slouches in the netting.  If there are slouches or gaps, birds can easily have access to the area that you are trying to protect.  There are bird control specialists who will give you direction or install the bird netting.  This would be advised, especially if embarking on protecting large open spaces.

Spring is in the air, and so are the swallows.  Swallows are actually extraordinary fliers.  Their flying skills are what attract their mates and scare away their predators.  It also is a means of defending their territory.  There are 83 species in the Hirundinidae family, swallows being in the group of passerine birds.  The swallow has great maneuverability and endurance due to its slender streamlined body and long pointed wings.  In early spring the swallows come back to North American and build their nests and families.   Swallow control is essential if you do not want them building their nests on your buildings, homes, barns and under areas such as bridges and underpasses.

The swallow nests are sticky and messy.  Swallows are known to return to the same breeding area each year.   To get rid of the swallow, swallow control measures need to be established before their return.  Once a swallow has laid their eggs, it is illegal to disturb them and they are protected under the Migratory Bird reaty Act of 1918.  You must wait until they leave their homes until after winter, usually, to remove their nesting materials.  Although swallows have a benefit to man which is eating insects, humane swallow control will only keep them away from the protected area and find another location to build their muddy nests.

Swallow control will keep the pest swallow from building their nests in large colonies as they are prone to do.  They love to hide up in the corners along the underside of the eaves.  This is the ideal location to install bird netting. The ¾ mesh bird netting creates a 45 degree angle that will prevent the swallows from building their nests.  This will also prevent them from coming back the following year.  Bird netting is durable, strong and long lasting.  It has U.V. protection and is made to withstand the various weather elements.  It is lightweight and simple to use.

Bird slopes is another swallow control product that is effective under the eaves.  This form of swallow control makes it impossible for birds to land on the 90-degree angle the bird slop creates.  It is made from PVC and is a slippery slope for the bird making it doubly difficult for them to stay in the area.

Both bird netting and bird slopes can be applied in other areas as well.  Bird netting protects fruit trees, berry bushes and garden vegetables.  Bird slopes protect ledges and I-beams as well as eaves.  Both swallow control products will never harm the bird or the installer.  Both bird netting and bird slopes are humane, safe, quick and easy ways to deter the pest swallow from making themselves at home.

One Swallow Doesn't Make A Spring - an idiomatic expression to say that just because something goes well, one can't assume that everything else will.  But swallow control using bird netting and bird slopes will get rid of the swallows and keep the pest birds well away from your structures.

If you need to exclude pest birds from areas such as loading docks, warehouses, garages and even airport hangers, bird netting is the one sure way to completely exclude the pest bird.  When installed correctly, bird netting is virtually invisible to the naked eye.  Bird netting will not create a visual distraction for customers or employees.  Bird netting is the visual barrier that is a distraction to the pest bird.  The netting causes confusion and frustration to the bird which in turn gets rid of the bird when they fly away to find another spot to roost. 

Bird netting has many advantages.  By keeping pest birds away from your building, not only are they an eye sore to look at, but they can actually be the cause of eye sore.  Ocular Histoplasmosis is a fungal eye infection that eats away at the eyeball.  It is only one of over sixty diseases that birds can transfer to humans.   Ocular Histoplasmosis is transmitted to humans when the bird droppings are allowed to accumulate, dry out and turn to dust.  The dust then becomes airborne and gets into the mucus membranes of the eye unknowingly.  Other potentially fatal illnesses like E. coli, salmonella and respiratory Histoplasmosis also come from bird droppings. Business should not take pest bird infestation casually.  There is very little cost involved to secure the buildings and areas that can be controlled by bird netting compared to the cost to the company when a customer or employee comes in contact with one of the 60 diseases.  Installation of bird netting could simply put an end to any health worries associated with the pest bird.

Another advantage to bird netting is it is abiding by the law.  A bird net is a humane way to get rid of the pest birds.  Bird netting does not harm the bird in any way.  It is illegal to kill most types of birds, especially using pesticides for bird control.  It is important to know when it is safe to remove nests and other materials as well.  Removing breeding birds leaves the babies to die in the building which attracts more parasites and disease.  Humane bird control using products such as a bird net is essential.

Bird netting is one of the more versatile forms of bird control.  It can be used in large open areas or secured to keep pest birds out of small intricate openings where the pest bird tries to hide from its predators.  It is light weight and easy to install.  Good bird netting is long lasting and U.V. protected.  It is also a great bird control product that protects vegetable gardens, blueberry bushes and even grape vines.  Its various mesh sizes protects against many species of birds.

For businesses where large areas are in need of bird netting, it would be wise to consult with a professional bird control installer.  If the netting is not installed properly, sagging and drooping netting leaves gaps for pest birds to get through.  When this happens, it is as if no netting has even been installed.  Alleviating all risks associated with the pest bird is the ultimate goal.

It is imperative to use an effective pest bird control product that has been proven through testing and usage.  Bird spikes are effective and widely used and suggested among contractors, architects and municipalities.  Bird spikes keep larger pest birds from landing and moving about their wings.  They deter pest birds from roosting, perching and nesting on beams, signs, roofs, street lights, parapets, ledges and chimneys, to name a few areas.  
 
Plastic bird spikes are non-conductive, which means they can safely be used near anything electrical such as phone lines and power lines.  They will also not interfere with any radiated transmission such as cell phone towers or any place where high frequency transmission is being used. Plastic bird spikes are very durable and can be used where severe weather conditions are an issue.  The bird spikes are U.V. protected to withstand sunlight and extreme cold conditions.  The rugged plastic material is humane for the bird as well as easily used by those who install them.  The plastic spikes are blunted and will not cause any harm.  Plastic spikes come in array of colors, making them easily adaptable to various architectural designs. 

Bird spikes will deter a wide range of birds such as pigeons, vultures, crows and gulls.  The spikes come in three different widths, 3-, 5- and 7-inches, and will cover an area 8 inches side.  They are quite easy to install and require very little maintenance.  There is no assembly once the bird spikes are received, and can be immediately installed once opened from the packing.

Surfaces should be cleaned thoroughly before installing the bird spikes.  If bird droppings are on the area, disinfectant is recommended.  Microcide SQ is a disinfectant and deodorizer as well as  a broad spectrum hospital grade cleaner.  Microcide SQ is approved by the EPA and is effective against over 100 different bacteria, viruses, yeast and mold.  The liquid is concentrated.  Every two ounces of concentrate makes two gallons of microcode.  It goes a long way.  You treat the area by spraying the Microcide and letting it sit for only 10 minutes.  Then wipe clean, removing any debris.  Remember to protect yourself and treat bird droppings as hazardous waste.  Cover your nose and mouth to protect yourself against disease caused by the accumulated droppings. Gloves should always be worn.

When the spikes are ready to be installed, make sure to leave about a half inch overhang on the outer edge.  This will make certain the clever pest bird will not find an area to land on.  Birds are agile and use to landing on small and narrow locations.  If that can walk the tight rope of the electrical wires, they can easily land on a one inch space of concrete or wood.   If the area that needs bird spike coverage is wider than eight inches, simply install multiple rows of bird spikes.  The spikes come in two-foot sections but can be cut down easily into smaller sections if needed.  They can be screwed into place or even glued using a strong outdoor adhesive. 

By using bird spikes, you will know that you are using a bird deterrent that will not harm any bird species, which should give you peace of mind. Bird spikes are not only humane, but very economical

Bird netting is a sure fired way to deter the pest bird away from gardens, orchards and vineyards.  Plastic bird netting is lightweight and easy to work with while protecting fruit trees, berry bushes, gardens and even the eaves of the home or other buildings.  Bird netting is U.V. protected, so it is durable and long lasting.  When installed correctly, it is virtually invisible.

Types of Bird Netting and Installation

Installation of bird netting is very versatile.  The netting can be suspended over gardens, berry bushes and grape vines.  When protecting fruit trees, measure the circumference of the fruit tree and add and extra foot before cutting.  Then you simply secure the netting with twine, zip ties or hog rings. 

For any type of berry bush or grape vines, it is best to suspend the bird netting over the bushes or vines by at least 6 inches.  It is pest to leave a space which will prevent the pest birds from sitting on the bird netting and poking their beaks through the mesh to peck at the fruit.  It is easy to secure the suspended bird netting using a series of poles placed sporadically around the perimeter of the foliage.    Wrapping each individual plant also protects the vegetable gardens.  Bird netting also works to keep the pest birds from building nests under the eaves of a building structure.  It is very simple to install.  Either a staple gun or bird netting clips can be used to secure the netting to the structure.

For larger areas such as garages, canopies, air hangers and factories, heavy-duty bird netting is more practical.  Heavy-duty bird netting is constructed of a very strong professional grade polyethylene.  The heavy-duty bird netting is water proof, rot proof and flame resistant.  It is also sub-zero stabilized and non-conductive.  This type of bird netting comes in three different mesh sizes depending on what type of pest bird species is causing the problem.  Installation of bird netting should be done properly so it will have no sags or droops.  If there are sags and droops, this creates a gap for the pest birds to go through.  For secure protection, attach a tension cable to the opening on the building and then attach the netting with hog rings. 

If the pest bird is a bat, there is netting that is used specifically for bats.  Bat netting has a 3/8” mesh and comes in various sizes.  Bat netting is also made of a strong polyethylene mesh.  Bat netting installation can be done the same as heavy-duty bird netting using a tension cable.  This physical bird deterrent will block bats from areas such as attics, garages and eaves.

It is important to gain control over the pest bird.  Bird droppings are one of the biggest problems of pest bird infestation.  Bird droppings pose serious health hazards.  There are over 60 known diseases associated with birds and their droppings.  The most serious risks arise from disease organisms that grow in the nutrient-rich accumulations of bird droppings, feathers and the debris under their nests and roosts.    External parasites are also a problem with infested birds and bats once they leave their nests and roosts.  The parasites then are able to invade buildings and bite people. 

There is also fungus such as histoplasmosis to be concerned about.  Humans and animals can be affected by this disease.  Airborne fungus spores can be ingested by breathing in the spores.  This can occur especially after a roost has been disturbed.  The National Institutes of Health has also reported a potentially blinding eye condition, ocular histoplasmosis syndrome, a result from the fungus.

Bird netting is a must to protect not only fruit trees, berry bushes, gardens, vineyards and building structures, but the health and well being of humans.

Most people will agree that pest birds can be annoying and loud, destructive and sometimes hazardous to one’s health.  Because of the problems the pest birds can cause, people have devised clever ways to keep the birds away and to keep them from landing, nesting and roosting on valuable property, businesses and homes. Bird deterrents range from being as simple as flash tape or as high tech as solar and electric systems. 

Man will always outsmart the bird, however.  With modern technology the methods are becoming more and more sophisticated.  Electric track bird repellants rely on electrical conductivity to discourage pest birds from landing on a surface.  The electric track systems deliver a very mild and harmless jolt of electricity which only irritates the bird enough to send him flying off to find a more comfortable location.  The electric track systems can be mounted on signs or billboards, rooftops and ledges.  They can be installed on any flat or curved surface.  The shock track is made from a flexible U.V. protected PVC base that conforms easily to any straight surface or curved area. The birds know it is there but with the discreet design of the system and the different colors that the systems come in makes this high tech bird deterrent virtually invisible to the naked eye from the ground.  Where aesthetics are a priority, there is a flat track that does the same thing as the electric track system, but the flat track, at its highest point, only measures ¼” in height. 

Another type of bird deterrent that is above and beyond the tried and true methods is the bird spider.  The bird spider has batteries, but it also runs using solar power.  You might have seen the bird spider on television on Ask This Hold House.  The bird spider is ideal for any flat surface such as skylights, air conditioner units, light posts, signs and rooftops.  The spider’s arms come in sizes from 2’ up to 8’ in length.  All sizes are portable so they can be removed and stored away easily.  How the bird spider works is the “arms” sway and bounce in the breeze.  The movement of the arms is what irritates the birds because the movement does not allow them to land on the surface near the bird spider deterrent.  They will not want anything to do with the movement of the spindly arms.

The tried and true methods still stand today, however.  Bird scare deterrents such as flash tape, scare balloons and bird diverters still deliver the punch to the bird’s senses.  Bird spikes and bird netting is especially still a highly effective way to block birds from unwanted areas.  Bird spikes and bird netting is especially effective for large warehouse settings and high buildings where the birds prefer to land.

No matter which method you choose, make sure you purchase the bird deterrent products from a reputable company that has excellent customer service and access to installation experts.  If there are any questions about any products, getting a quick and efficient answer will save company time and protection from pest birds that will last.  Once the products are in place, whether you choose the higher tech systems or the tried and true, rest assured the birds will be flying on by to find another location to call their home.

It can be an unwelcome site.  Walking up to your favorite tucked away coffee joint and seeing the sign that says, “Beware of Nesting Birds – High Activity - May Fly Low and Near You”.  For many, the coffee house is the first sign of civilization that is seen in the morning.  First words uttered of the day for many is, “Grande Latte, non-fat, extra shot”.  Last thing needed is the morning coffee ritual interrupted by birds flying in front of you and startling you before you have had your morning coffee! 

Nest building takes time and requires demanding activity of the bird.  Nests provide concealment from predators, shelter from rain, support and insulation.  The nesting habits of each species have evolved over time and are matched to the climate, size, habitat and amount of threat by predators.  Many coffee houses place themselves in little nooks in strip malls where there is a lot of greenery.  This enhances a relaxing environment for people to sit comfortably and enjoy their coffee in a nice tranquil surrounding.  For the birds, it gives them what they want as well which is a quiet little nook to build their nests.  Birds will become angry and quite active when they think their nests are at risk.

For coffee joint owners it is important to watch for early bird activity and to be proactive in setting up bird control before nesting happens.  Once there are nests with eggs, it is illegal to remove them.  The bird nests are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.  Birds are smart.  If the coffee joint has been bird proofed they will find another little nook or cranny elsewhere to start their nesting process. 

There are many options for protecting the outdoor dining area.  First look for the possible roosting areas that birds will flock to.  This is an area where the bird temporarily sleeps and rests and the place they perch and wait for someone to drop a piece of bagel on the ground.  If the building has eaves, canopies and awnings this is one typical place they will roost and perch.  These areas can be protected with bird spikes or even a simple bird gel.

Bird spikes create an uneven landing surface that the birds will not like.  Bird spikes can be placed on flat or curved surfaces.  They can be easily screwed into place or glued down or even tied down.  Bird spikes come in varying widths to accommodate just about any space requirement.  As opposed to stainless steel bird spikes, plastic bird spikes come in many colors to give that extra invisibility factor.  Bird spikes, however, when installed properly, are virtually invisible.  Patrons will not even know they are there. 

Instead of bird spikes, or in unison with bird spikes, transparent bird gel is another option to look at. Transparent bird gel is a non-toxic, sticky substance that creates a very sticky sensation on the bird’s feet and they will not want to be where the gel is placed.  Much like the aftermath of a soda spilled in the movie theater, it is just uncomfortable to be stepping in it. Bird gel is a quick fix.  It can be applied on the surface quick and easily, similar to how a caulking gun works.  It is effective for many weather conditions from 15 degrees to 200 degrees F.  Once applied, it lasts up to 6 months.

Once all the roosting and perching spots are protected, it would not hurt to protect the shrubs and trees that may be right outside the door and over the eating areas.  A type of visual scare tactic would be very practical for this type of location.  The pest birds are perching and roosting looking around for the perfect nesting area.  The visual scare diverter would keep the birds away for good.  The shiny reflective surface of the bird diverter along with the mock predator eye imprinted on the side is what gets rid of the pest bird and keeps the bird away.    Both the shiny surface and the mock predator eye design work together to appeal to the bird’s visual senses.  The bird diverters are not invisible but may just add a decorative touch to the shrubbery.  The design is only about the size of a large pomegranate, so they are not distracting at all.  Only to the birds!

There are more reasons coffee house owners will want to keep the pest birds away.  More importantly than scaring a patron before they have had their coffee, are the hazards that the pest bird’s droppings contain.  Birds and their droppings, especially when they are allowed to accumulate, are riddled with diseases.  Over 60 different transmittable diseases have been recorded.  Many of the diseases are airborne when the droppings dry and are disturbed.  This can happen when simply sweeping the dried white hazardous material away.  The diseases are carried airborne and the spores can get into the nasal passages where the diseases then develop within the body.  New bird droppings are equally as dangerous but in a different way.  Many slip and fall accidents have been documented due to the fresh, wet and slippery bird droppings on the ground.   Every business owner cringes at the thought about the liability and costs of such an incident happening. 

One last reason to get rid of pest birds and keep them away is the damage the bird droppings can cause to the building itself.  Bird droppings are very acidic and can corrode just about any type of surface, including cement, canvas, wood and paint.  Millions of dollars is spent each year repairing and replacing the damage that the pest birds cause.  Implementing a couple of low cost bird proofing products around the coffee joint will ensure a peaceful experience to the customers and peace of mind to the business owner and managers.