Bird Flash Tape

Why use humane bird deterrents?

One of the key reasons to use humane bird deterrents is because there is the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (MBTA).  It is a federal law to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill or sell migratory birds.  The statue also grants complete protection to any bird parts including feathers, eggs and nests.  There are over 800 species of birds that are on the list.  Some of the birds that are on the list are Canada Goose, crow, sparrow, swallow and woodpecker.

Although these birds are protected under law, it is wise and necessary to humanely dissuade them from your home or business.  There can be a huge negative impact when migratory birds seek reprieve within the trees and structures on your property.  Millions of dollars are spent each year on clean up and repair from the destruction of the pest bird.

The bird droppings are what cause the destruction.  The acidity in the droppings can eat through all kinds of materials including wood, canvas and even metals.  Birds have a very high metabolism rate that makes them drop their unwanted “bombs” anywhere from 20 to 50 times a day.  If allowed to accumulate for any length of time it is not hard to imagine the damage that can be done.

There are, thankfully, safe and humane ways to get rid of woodpeckers and get rid of geese, and bird control for just about any nuisance bird that is protected by the MBTA.  Bird netting can easily be applied to the eaves of the home, or the siding of the home to prevent birds from nesting in the eaves and to prevent the woodpecker from pecking on the exterior of the walls.  Bird spikes can be placed on rooftops to make it uncomfortable for the bird to land on the roof.  Shiny reflective flash tape and bird diverters can be hung in trees to scare them away.

Blocking the bird and scaring the bird is not harming them at all.  It is just using bird control products that work against their natural instincts.

Birds have a very keen sense of survival. They look for spots to nest and roost that are out of the way of their predators. This is why they often roost and nest in the eaves or rafters of the home. Their objective is to hide their existence from their enemy.

Using the bird’s vulnerability by deterring them with this same sense of fear is how to keep birds away from youf home. Scaring birds away has been in action for centuries. But with new technologies and new tested bird control products, it has become more prevalent and a whole lot easier.

Along with the fear factor, creating a barrier between the pest birds and roosting and nesting sites is another way to keep your home pest bird free. Bird netting is ideal for blocking the bird out of unwanted places. You do not have to worry about your home looking like a prison when the netting is installed. It is practically invisible when put up correctly. Bird netting is made of polypropylene and is U.V. protected. It is lightweight and very durable which makes it easier to use.

Scaring the bird away is even easier than blocking them out. There are reflective type bird diverters that appear to have a predator’s eye on the sides of them. They are reflective because they have a shiny surface. When the sun bounces off the shine and it moves in the breeze, the birds will do an about face and fly away in fear. It will not harm the bird in any way. It actually only motivates the bird to get to safety. There is also very simple tape that can be hung in the trees or along the home or patio. This flash tape is shimmering red. It too, moves and ripples in the breeze. It also makes a noise that the birds do not like.

The scare bird deterrent devices along with the netting will ensure total management of the bird. It does not take strenuous work, just a few great products to put in the birds way.

 

Birds have no boundaries.  They can fly and perch and nest wherever they find an available location that suits them.  Birds are instinctual creatures.  All behavior is explained by the need to survive.  Migration is undertaken to winter in gentler climates.  It is not difficult to understand the terms of survival.  The terms are need for water, food, shelter and reproduction.  

It is okay to get rid of birds on your property.  By creating uncomfortable situations where they might naturally perch, roost and nest is all it takes.  It is both safe and humane for all involved.  There are products that are safe and humane that work against the bird’s natural instinctual behaviors.  There are types of control that block the bird out and that works against the bird’s visual instincts. 

Physical Bird Deterrents

These types of the deterrents physically block the bird from an area.  For example, garden bird netting can be used on fruit trees and blueberry bushes to keep the bird from eating the fruit.  The netting is suspended over the plants with a series of poles.  Trees can be wrapped with the netting.  Bird spikes are another type of physical bird deterrent.  Bird spikes are ideal for rooftops, ledges and fences.  It stops the birds from landing on the surfaces.  The spikes have blunted ends, so even if the bird attempts to perch, they will not be harmed, just very uncomfortable, which will force them to fly away.

Visual Bird Deterrents

Visual bird deterrents work by scaring the bird away.  There is flash tape that is an iridescent red foil Mylar tape that can hang in trees or around the patio.  The shiny surface moving in the breeze is what irritates the bird and scares them away.  Diverters and scare balloons also are shiny and they have a printed design that resembles a predator’s eye to the bird, again, scaring them away.

Bird control in place at home is setting boundaries for the birds.  It is your right to protect your property, using humane bird control products.

 

 

 

 

 

Bird control is constantly evolving. We have come a long way since the old beating the pots and pans or shooting of guns to get the birds away from the trees and homes. It has also been determined that bird feces are quite a dangerous substance. It is known that they are messy and ugly, but they really can be quite hazardous.

Roosting and nesting birds will accumulate quite a build-up of bacteria, viruses and fungal agents within the feces. Their droppings not only carry diseases and such, but they can erode steel, wood and paint. There are reported incidents of bridges collapsing, in part from the damage of pigeon poop. There are three main types of bird control.

Sound

The newest ways to frighten the birds away are by using a sound or sonic device. There are sonic units that play predator calls and distress calls every 10 minutes. This sound deterrent has over 22 types of birds pre-recorded in the unit. If you are unsure of what type of bird you are dealing with, there is a general setting that will cover a multitude of species. The single unit can cover up to 1 acre, but with extra speakers, you’ll have coverage of 5 acres. It is ideal for large backyards. There is volume control and an easy to read program display. It can be programmed to turn off and on at certain times.

Physical
 

Physical bird deterrents are objects that get in the way of the bird. Bird netting and bird spikes are both very commonly used to keep the birds out of certain areas including the rooftops and eaves. There is even woodpecker deterrent netting for the sides of the home where they like to drum. Woodpecker house damage can be quite extensive.

Visual

Most bird control products that work on the bird’s vision are reflective and shiny, such as reflective bird diverters and flash tape. The material used is a sun reflector, but also the movement of the deterrents frightens the birds.

All are safe and humane, while being inexpensive and practical for the average homeowner.

　

Boating is one of those seasonal sports that people get excited about.  Fishing trips with the guys, family outings on the weekends, and out of town visitors in summer are fun reasons to take the boat out. 

Getting the boat ready for the season includes maintenance checks such as checking the safety gear, fuel systems and fluid levels.  Annual maintenance checks help get the boat out quicker and ensure safety on the seas.

Bird proofing the boat should be on the maintenance checklist.  There are different types of bird control products that can keep the boat free from nesting materials and bird feces. 

A solar-powered bird deterrent uses motion to scare away pest birds such as seagulls, crows and pigeons.  A solar repeller is a unit that has a base that can be mounted to the boat on either a flat surface or an angled one.  They are very easy to install.  There are two metal “arms” that screw right into the top of the repeller cone base.  The arms extend 2.5’.  The solar power causes continuous motion that prevents the bird from landing.  It does not injure the bird, just scares them away.

Another scare tactic to use is a visual bird deterrent such as a reflective bird diverter.  The scare diverter can be hung on the railings and especially the high areas of the boat where the birds like to perch.  The diverters have a “mock” predator eye design on the side.  To humans it is just a nice design, but it scares the bird away.  They also are made using a reflective material that irritates the bird’s visual senses. 

There are also balloons that work the same way and have a similar design.  The balloons are the size of an average beach ball.  Flash tape does not have the design, but the tape is made of Mylar and is a shimmery red.    Like the other visual diverters, the movement of the shiny flash tape annoys the bird.

The low cost and quick installation of these products will ensure a long season of bird free boating.

 

 

Woodpeckers are a very familiar group of birds.  The ability to peck and drum into trees in search of food or excavate nest cavities is well known.  They prefer partially dead trees for nesting sites, but they will readily peck holes in wood structures in search of insects beneath the surface.  This includes the side of your home.

Woodpeckers also have characteristic calls.  They use their rhythmic pecking sequences to make their presence known.  The rhythmic drumming establishes their territory and also attracts and signals their mates.  Woodpeckers breed in spring, commonly laying 3 to 6 eggs.  Incubation is very short, lasting only 11 to 14 days.

If you live in an area that is known to have woodpeckers, it is best that you protect your property at the beginning of spring, or even a little before.  Woodpecker house damage is likely to occur especially if your home has a wood exterior or in suburbs near wooded areas or in rural wood settings.  You could have as many as six to eight birds drumming on your home during a season if you have not protected the home with some type of woodpecker repellent.

Bird Control can consist of a physical deterrent that would block the woodpecker from being able to drum and also objects that would frighten the bird away.  A combination of both is often suggested. 

There are woodpecker kits that contain bird control products such as visual bird deterrents to frighten the woodpecker away.  Scare balloons and flash tape are included in the kit.  They can be hung on the side of the home, or any building.  They are ideal for under eaves and can be easily hung in any tree as well.  When the woodpecker sees this visual distraction, they become confused and frightened, and will want to avoid the area.  Woodpecker bird netting along side the visual deterrents would bar the woodpecker from drumming on the side of the building.

The objective is to get rid of woodpeckers not to harm them.  Woodpeckers are classified as migratory and are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Woodpecker bird control is the best option. Bird netting and visual deterrents will do the trick.

Spring is a popular time of year.  Physical outdoor activities resume after hibernation, for animals and humans.  Rain and snow is a distant memory and the world around you is blossoming and becoming colorful again.

Another sign that spring is here is the migration of the birds.  It feels like flocks of birds appear overnight.  The sounds can be delightful after a dark winter, but do not let this fool you.  Their twittering is different than ours, but then, again, maybe it’s not.  Their twittering means looking for food, a mate, and shelter.  If you are a backyard gardener, beware.  Do not let this migratory birds ruin the production of the garden.  To ensure a fruitful garden, include bird netting as your bird exclusion plan.

Garden bird netting will protect your fruit trees, berry bushes and any other plants that produce anything you do not want the pest bird to ruin.  Garden netting is a simply physical bird deterrent that will create a barrier between the bird and your precious garden.

Garden netting is light weight and easy to handle and install.  It is suggested to suspend the garden netting over the plants by at least 6 inches.  Place poles around the sides of the area and attach the netting to the poles.  They can be attached using a staple gun, net clips or hooks.  Plants can also be individually wrapped with the garden netting as well.   Protecting the fruit trees is easy also.  You simply measure the circumference of the tree, and then cut an extra foot larger.  The netting is then secured to the tree with twine, zip ties or hog rings.

Pairing a physical bird deterrent with another type of bird control is suggested.  A simple Mylar flash tape streaming from trees and the netting would create the perfect visual distraction to go along with the garden netting.  Diverters in trees work well too.  They scare the birds away with their unique predator eye designs.

Do not let the pest bird be in control of your space.  Take control with bird control products that will keep them away all season long.
 

Birds in the garden are good for consuming insects and such.  The problem is they also gobble up the fruits and vegetables, or peck at them making them very unattractive for the table or often times entirely inedible.  

When beginning the garden planning and planting, bird control needs to be a prime issue.  There are different combinations of methods to choose from.  Some backyard gardeners use only visual deterrents, changing them up occasionally so the bird does not get use to the one form of bird control.  Others use a combination of products including visual bird deterrents and sound deterrents.  Or sound deterrents and physical deterrents.  There are any options and combinations to choose from.

Visual Deterrents

When using visual bird deterrents, variation and surprise are vital.  Birds can sometimes acclimate rather quickly to scare tactics.  Moving and relocating them from time to time adds to the success of the products.  

Flash tape, scare balloons and reflective diverters are types of visual deterrents.  The flash tape is an iridescent red that moves in the breeze and also makes a crinkling sound.  Scare balloons and diverters both have a design that resembles a predator’s eye to the pest bird.  The material is also shiny and reflective which irritates the bird’s sense of sight.  Fear and annoyance gets rid of the bird.

Sound Deterrents

Sonic bird control devices are highly effective.  The devices broadcast programmable threatening records of distress calls and predator cries, telling the birds within range to steer clear of the area.  Most people would not even recognize that what they are hearing is a sonic device in use.  There are volume controls and interval timing of the calls.  You can select a particular bird species or choose the general setting that plays a variety of species’ calls.

Even with this type of strategy, variation is the key.  Program a variety of sounds and duration and intervals to prevent the birds from acclimating to the sound.

Whether your backyard garden area is large or small, a combination of methods and occasional changes to these methods is recommended.

 

 

Your home and other buildings on land is not the only location that the pest bird will migrate to.  Pest birds such as the seagull spot a boat, and will easily make it their home.  Boat owners are in constant battle with the feathered mate.  Bird control for use on the boat is essential to keep the birds from damaging the deck and canvas on the boat.

The action of bird roosting or perching on the boat rigging, or other projecting parts of the boat, in itself, is harmless.  It is the bird droppings that damage the deck and any other materials on the boat.  Bird waste is very acidic and can eat through paint, wood, canvas and even metals.  It is also messy and very nasty to look at.  Bird waste is also very slippery, and on a boat you do not want to add any additional slippery areas for the sake of the passengers.

Bird deterrents on your boat will keep your boat healthy and hazardous free.  A successful way to control this problem consists of using visual bird deterrents.  This method is a visual distraction to the bird that frightens the bird away.  Flash tape is a very simple example of a type of visual bird deterrent.  Flash tape is made of Mylar tape and is a red iridescent color.  The shiny reflective tape moves with the breeze.  The shiny reflective surface not only scares the bird, but the flash tape also makes a crackling sound that is an irritant to the bird.  Irritated enough for them to fly away and find a more comfortable place to habitat.

A bird spider is a physical bird deterrent that also scares the bird away.  At any harbor, you will see them softly bouncing on boats.  The bird spider has a base which can be mounted to the boat, or it can be a sandbag base for more portability.  From the base extend spider like arms that move in the breeze. The movement of the spindly arms is what frightens the bird away.

For best results, use both bird control products in tandem.

 

Starlings, House Sparrows and pigeons are “bad” birds in many people’s eyes.  The U.S. government even recognizes that these birds can mean trouble.  These are the only species of birds that can be killed without a hunting permit.

Before you get out your guns, there are safe and humane ways to get rid of the birds from your backyard trees.  The woodpecker is another species of bird that although we can appreciate its uniqueness, will not only cause damage to the trees but woodpecker house damage is at risk.  If there are fruit trees in the backyard, pest birds will cause substantial damage by feeding on ripening fruit.

The most effective way to reduce bird damage to backyard trees is bird netting.  Bird netting will prevent access to the ripening fruit by placing the plastic bird netting over the tree.  It is best if you use a frame that holds the netting away from the tree by about 6 inches so the bird does not sit on the mesh and still have access to the fruit.  Bird netting is a highly desirable method for many situations.  It is efficient and the netting can be reused many times.  It is very cost effective.

Visual bird deterrents are an excellent pairing with the bird netting.  Not only are you blocking the birds but also with a visual deterrent you are now frightening them away.  It is still a safe and humane form of bird control.  Flash tape can be hung in the trees.  The tape is iridescent red.  When the sun reflects off the tape it creates a visual distraction zone.  It also makes a crinkling noise when it blows in the breeze.

Besides bird netting, using a visual deterrent that also scares the birds away doubles the success of keeping the birds away.  It is also highly recommended.  Birds have good memories and they recognize routine and can remember what bird deterrent is where after awhile.  Movement and change will keep the birds on the edge of their fear.

 

It has been said that a few home improvements or repairs can improve the appearance, curb appeal and value of your home like new house siding.  Whether you choose wood siding, aluminum siding, fiberglass or cement fiber siding, you will want to add bird control to protect the investment of this type of home improvement.

Plywood house siding, for instance, is siding made to simulate reverse board-and-batten design, is sometimes attacked by the woodpeckers.  The leaf-cutting bees make nests in holes in the plywood core.  The woodpeckers are going to drum endlessly to get to the bees.

Woodpeckers not only drum to get to their food source, insects, but they drum to make their presence known.  It’s not a pretty call from a bluebird in a tree calling to its mate.  The drumming can be incessant, and start very early in the mornings, waking you out of a perfectly good sleep.  Lack of sleep will not be your only problem.

Woodpecker house damage will be costly.  Woodpecker control should be installed to distract the bird from its drumming site by blocking their access and by using scare techniques that are good techniques on how to get rid of woodpeckers.

Woodpecker netting is a physical barrier that will block woodpeckers from gaining access to the siding.  The birds will be frustrated at not gaining access to the siding and will move on to a more accessible location.  Woodpecker netting mesh is ¾” in size, small enough so the woodpeckers cannot get through it.  It is easy to install, lightweight, and virtually invisible when installed correctly.  It is an easy form of bird control that can be stored away and re-used for the next season.

Changing up the type of bird deterrents around the home is essential.  Birds will get use to one type of bird deterrent.  Adding a visual bird deterrent to the woodpecker netting will ensure keeping the bird perplexed.  Using flash tape or a scare balloon or diverter will ensure the bird, each time the bird tries to access the area, will have new stimulation that sends him flying away.

 

Do you have fruit trees in your backyard that are getting ready to bear fruit this coming spring and summer?  Are you afraid the pest birds are going to eat the “not so ripe” fruit and leave you with nothing?  This is a real fear for a lot of backyard gardeners.  

This time of year is for new growth and new adventures.  It is a time when celebrations start occurring outside.  It is definitely the time to get the backyard in order, so that the outdoor events will run smoothly, seemly and clean.

Hosing off the patio furniture and bringing out the cushions is one way to start preparing.  Cleaning the cement is another.  Proper installation of bird control products is a must.  This will ensure that the area remains clean throughout the summer.  

Bird control products that are properly installed will keep the birds from roosting and nesting and pooping on your property.  Bird droppings can be very unsightly.  But along with unsightly, the new droppings are slippery and can result in slip and fall accidents.  The older accumulated droppings can harbor fungus, parasites and diseases that can be transmitted to humans.  Avoiding both of these problems is just a matter of applying bird control methods in the yard.

Visual bird deterrents are an excellent choice to use along with physical or sound deterrents.  Visual deterrents such as flash tape, scare balloon and scare eye diverters will frighten the birds away.  The way they get rid of the birds is by their unique design.  They have shiny reflective surfaces that create a visual distraction zone.  The flash tape also makes a crackling sound when it moves in the breeze.  Birds are very susceptible to sound disturbances.

Pairing the visual bird deterrents with a sound bird deterrent is extremely successful in repelling the birds from the property.  Sonic devises are available that play distress and predator calls at intervals.  The broadcasted calls alert the birds in the area to stay away.  

Using both the sound and visual deterrents, and occasionally moving around the visual deterrents will keep the property bird free all season long.

 

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.

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. 

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.

Farmers, professional gardeners and your average amateur fruit and veggie patch aficionado have something in common.  Protecting the fruits of their labor!  After working hard to nurture along the fruits and vegetables, protecting them from pest birds so consumers, family and friends can enjoy the produce is an important task at hand.  There is no need for pesticides and poisons to get rid of pest birds.  There are alternatives that are humane and safe and quick and easy to put into action to keep the pest birds away all season long.

Physical Bird Deterrents

Physical bird deterrents are bird control measures that physically block pest birds from the area that they are trying to get to.  Bird netting is a type of physical bird deterrent that will protect the commercial crop as well as the backyard garden.  It is a very low profile and easy bird control method to include as part of the bird control strategy to keep birds away. Bird netting is often seen in vineyards as a way of blocking the bird from the precious grapes.  Bird netting is a very versatile physical bird deterrent.  Bird netting comes in different mesh sizes, width size, lengths and specifications.  The mesh material is made of a polyethylene.  Important features to have in commercial bird netting are U.V stabilized netting, rot proof and water proof.   You also want to choose bird netting that is flame resistant and are ISO 1806 Protocol Mesh tested.  There is heavy duty bird netting, no-knot bird netting and garden bird netting to choose from.  There is even netting that specifically keeps bats at bay.  The versatility allows implementation for various needs and concerns.

Another type of physical bird deterrent is bird spikes.  Very often birds will sit up on ledges, rooflines, light posts, signs, awnings and canopies.  The bird will land and be looking down and around for food and water sources.  By alleviating the bird’s eye view, you are, to a certain point, hiding the plants and vegetation.  Bird spikes simple create an uneven surface that the birds will not land on.  The spikes will not harm the birds in any way, nor harm the person who installs them.  The tips of the spikes are blunted and will not pierce.  There are different widths available and when choosing plastic bird spikes over stainless steel, there are a variety of colors to choose from to match the structure they are applied to.  The bird spikes can be applied to any flat or curved surface.  Bird spikes are easily installed using adhesive or screws.  When installed properly they are virtually invisible from the ground. 

Visual Bird Deterrents

Using a visual bird deterrent in conjunction with the physical bird deterrent or sound bird deterrent is always recommended.   Birds are very intelligent creatures.  Using different types of bird control products will keep it fresh and the birds will not get use to one way of deterring them.  Visual bird deterrents work by scaring birds away.  The scare balloon and flat scare diverter work in a similar way.  Both have reflective surfaces that are very shiny.  The scare balloon is made of a U.V. and weather resistant vinyl.  It is the size of an average beach ball around 16” diameter when inflated.  The flat bird diverter is made of a rugged and durable plastic.  Both the scare balloon and the flat bird diverter  have a design printed on the side.  There is a foil eye in the center of the scare devices which frightens the pest birds away.  They think the scare diverters are predators.  The visual distraction of the shiny surface also annoys the pest birds.   Both diverters can be hung in trees or on posts around the garden areas.  The flat bird diverters are an excellent defense that can be used in fruit trees.  

Bird scare flash tape is one of the most inexpensive bird control products to go along side the physical bird deterrents and sound deterrents.  Flash tape is made of iridescent red on one side and silver on the other.  Both sides flash brilliantly when they move in the slight breeze.  They make a fluttering sound that the birds do not like.  The mirror-like reflection of the tape will get rid of the birds quickly.  Flash tape easily scares the birds away.  Flash tape is proven effective in a wide variety of garden and crop applications.  They can be secured on the outer branches of trees or shrubs, much like a streamer would be.  It is a great product to have as part of an optical distraction.

Sonic Bird Sound Deterrents

Sonic bird sound deterrents are excellent for large open areas.   The sonic bird sound deterrents work by broadcasting bird distress cries and bird predator sounds that are frightening and menacing.  This alerts the pest birds to flee the area.  And they will.  The sonic units can be adapted to cover up to six acres of bird control.  There is an LCD display panel that makes for very easy usage and shows the settings and the status at all times.  The sonic bird sound deterrents play over 22 different species of pest birds.  If you are uncertain as to which pest bird is the main problem, there is a setting that will cover a multitude of bird species.  The sonic bird sound deterrents can be programmed to play at night or during the evening or both.  They are very rigidly constructed, U.V. protected, sun and weather resistant.  The sonic units are definitely designed for outdoor use.

At the end of the day, the bird control measures that are chosen need to be selected according to your personal needs for your particular crops.  As you can see from the options above, there are many ways to protect what you have worked hard to accomplish. 

Birds are everywhere.  Some people even have bird baths and feeders in their yards to attract the birds.  That is fine if they are willing to suffer the consequences.  Businesses, however, have more liability to worry about.  Birds that tend to roost and nest on the buildings and structures turn the cute little song bird into a pest bird.

Every year, machinery, roofs, ventilation systems and structures are damaged and sometimes completely ruined by the pest bird and their droppings.  Millions of dollars is spent each year to repair and replace what the pest bird has destroyed.  Roof damage can be especially costly to replace.  Bird droppings are very acidic and eat away at many substrates.  Tar-based roofing materials are especially vulnerable to this.  It does not take long for the bird droppings to literally eat through the roof.  Rooftops are often where the pest bird will build its nests. They like to build their nests away from the weather elements and their predators, often times using drains, roof corners and rain gutters to build their nests and hide in.  This often times creates a water build up causing even more damage.  With the acidic bird droppings and water this can lead to a roof collapse with disastrous consequences.    Pigeons have been known to invade attics of restaurants and other buildings, building colonies of nests.  Over time, the sheer weight of their accumulated droppings has caused the ceiling to cave in.

Ventilation systems can also become clogged and blocked by the pest bird debris.  When a nest is built in ventilation systems, disease that the pest bird carries and transmits can spread through the airflow.  Another health hazard is when birds use fireplaces to nest and roost.  The threat to this is when the fireplace is eventually used.  Carbon monoxide is then a dangerous substance that can build up becoming deadly to humans and other animals.  If nests are allowed to be built near electrical boxes and machinery, fire is always a risk.  The appropriate bird control will save, most importantly lives, and also thousands of dollars of damage.

The corrosive droppings can also damage equipment, solar panels, insulation and air conditioning units.  Fresh droppings are dangerous as well creating a slippery mess for any who are near it to slip and fall.  The dust created by the dried accumulated droppings are equally as dangerous, if not more so.  The dust carries various diseases that humans can get by breathing in the spores that are in the dust which pose great risk to diseases such as Histoplasmosis and salmonella.  Bird control can prevent this type of situation from happening.

With proper bird control in place, pest birds can easily enter a large warehouse, factory and even airplane hangars and cause a lot of problems.  If the warehouse or factory is a food related business, the pest bird droppings will eat through plastics and contaminate the food that is already packaged.  Airplanes can be severely damaged when delicate parts of the plane come into contact with the hazardous bird droppings.

Businesses that have el fresco dining are at risk of losing customers if their bird deterrent measures are subpar.  Birds and their debris can be very disturbing to patrons who want to experience outdoor dining, even at fast food restaurants.

Bird Control Options

Bird Spikes/Bird Slopes/Bird Tracks

A common bird control product that used by many is bird spikes.  Bird spikes are stainless steel and plastic.  There are also spikes specifically used for girders and others for gutters.  Bird spikes are a physical bird deterrent that prevents the larger pest birds such as crows, pigeons, gulls, vultures and raptors from landing on fat or curved surfaces.  Birds spikes are a permanent solution that keeps birds from landing on ledges, rooflines, eaves, I-beams, awnings, canopies, light posts and signs to only name a few.  Stainless steel bird spikes are often recommended by architects, government agencies and contractors and a way to deter the pest bird. 

Bird slopes are made of angled PVC panels.  The slanted slopes make it difficult for the bird to get their footing.  It is slippery and uncomfortable which will cause them to move onto another location.  They are ideal for ledges, beams and eaves or any other 90 degree locations where pest birds often land and roost.

The electric track is not as terrible as it sounds.  It does give off a mild shock to the bird when it tries to land on the surface where the track is installed, but does not harm the bird in any way.  It is completely humane.  Electric track could be used in place of bird spikes when you need the lowest type of visibility of a bird deterrent.  Bird spikes and slopes are virtually invisible when installed correctly, but the bird track’s height is only ¼” high at the very highest point.  It is very flexible and can bend 360 degrees without compromising the integrity of the deterrent.  It is easy to install and is highly successful in bird behavior modification.  The pest birds will not come back. 

Bird Netting

Another type of physical bird deterrent is bird netting.  Bird netting is very versatile and is used for total exclusion of the pest bird.  Bird netting is effective smaller birds as well as the larger ones.  Often times pest birds will get into the hangars or warehouses.  Bird netting suspended up above is very effective in keep the pest birds from getting up into the I-beams and hiding away and nesting.  It is never too late to use bird netting.  If birds are already in the building there is a netting kit that will humanely capture the bird so that they can be released.  The netting kit is effective in capture most species of pest birds, large and small.  The netting that captures the birds is placed in the direct flight path of the pest birds.  They fly into the very thin, mist netting, flying normally.  It is also possible and sometimes necessary to use lighting or sounds to make the birds fly into the netting.

Visual Bird Deterrents

It is always a smart idea to have some type of visual deterrent along with a physical deterrent.  This way the pest bird does not get use to one type of product.  Visual bird deterrents come in different shapes and sizes.  There are scare balloons that are about the size of a beach ball, and there are smaller, flat diverters.  There is also a flash tape that comes in a roll.  These three visual bird deterrents all have a shiny reflective surface that disturbs the bird visually.  The scare balloon and the flat type of diverters have an imprint on the sides that the birds see as a predator’s eye which causes their natural instinct of fight or flight to kick in.  Hang them up along with a physical bird deterrent and they will fly away and stay away.

Being proactive and using bird deterrent products to keep the pest bird away will save thousands of hours in time and money, as well as keep everyone safe.

Summer is a busy time for planned activities.  Many non-profits hold their fundraisers, family reunion gatherings are taking place and many other activities are taking place that are at venues with outdoor seating.  Unfortunately, not only are people out and about but the pest bird is alive and well and gaining momentum during this time of year also.  Their roosting and nesting activities are in full swing. Where no bird repellent measures are in place, they are enjoying a bounty of food being left outside or dropped onto the ground.  They even scavenge from open trash cans and open trash bin areas.  Home gardeners beware.  If there is no protection, there will be no produce for you to eat.  The pest birds will get it all.

There are many bird repellents that can be put into place where the public will not even know they are there.  Bird repellents can be safe and humane for all and not disrupt the venue in any way.  The objective is not to harm the bird but get rid of the bird and keep them away.

How do you choose the right type of bird repellent? There are many bird repellent products to choose from.  There are visual bird deterrents, sound deterrents and physical bird deterrents.  Using a combination of tactics will secure ultimate security and make sure the pest bird doesn’t get close.

Visual Bird Repellents

Visual bird repellents keep the birds away by scaring them away.  They see something that is disturbing to them, and their natural instinct is to flee the area, which is what they do.  The patrons will also be able to see the visual bird repellents as well.  They can be disguised amongst the trees and some can act as decorations.  Flash tape for one, if it is hung in strips along a patio or balcony or even a gazebo, the red shiny ribbon moving in the breeze is somewhat festive.  It distracts and irritates the bird because it is shiny.  The sun also when reflected off the ribbon bothers the bird’s visual sense and they will want to fly away from the distraction.  The flash tape gives off a slight crinkling sound that also annoys the bird’s auditory sense.  It is a very inexpensive way to keep birds away from certain areas. 

Scare balloons are a more pronounced type of visual repellent.  Since the balloon is inflated to about a 16” diameter, there is no way it can be hidden.  When filled with a little water so as not to blow away, the scare balloons can be place in ponds, pools and hot tubs.  Guests do not need to know that it is actually a bird repellent.  The simple design on the shiny balloon to the bird, only, looks like a predator’s eye.  The movement of the scare balloon repellent along with the shiny vinyl and the design will keep the birds away from any water source. 

Bird diverters which are not inflatable, but flatter and smaller have the same design as the scare balloons.  The bird diverters are great for hanging in trees, especially fruit trees.  Bushy trees where pest birds flock too to hide from their predators will be in for a shock when there is a bird diverter hanging there.  They will think there is already a predator taking residence in the tree and flee the area.

Sound Repellents

Bird sound repellents work by scaring the bird using their auditory senses.  Sonic bird repellents broadcast distress cries and predator calls in intervals.  Most sound repellent units can be programmed to play over 20 different species of pest birds.  A sound deterrent would be ideal for use at night in certain venues, especially at places with a lot of outdoor vegetation and structures where the pest birds might flock to in the evening to roost.  The problem with letting them roost in the evening, although they might be gone when there is activity in the daytime is because they leave behind quite a mess.  Bird droppings are very unpleasant to look at, but more importantly than that is they are very hazardous to be around.  Fresh bird droppings are slippery and the light color makes it difficult to see when there are groups of people and the ground is cement or grass.  There is reported slip and fall accidents each year due to bird droppings.  Repelling the pest birds in the evening using a sonic sound repellent will eliminate the need for clean up in the morning.

Physical Bird Repellents

Physical bird repellents are needed when it is mandatory to block birds entirely from landing on or entering a specific area.  For outdoor venues that have been discussed, it is almost impossible to block them completely.  That would create an indoor effect or a caged feel if bird netting were to be place around the entire area.  Bird spikes and electric tracks would be a good repellent in this type of situation.  Bird spikes come in either stainless steel or plastic.  Both are virtually invisible to people on the ground when installed correctly.  Plastic bird spikes come in a variety of colors such as brown, black, tan, brick red, light grey and crystal clear.  Using plastic bird spikes will enhance the invisibility feature.  Bird spikes are ideal for use along any ledge, roof, windowsill, canopies and awnings.  Any place that is flat or curved, bird spikes can be placed.  This type of physical bird repellent will persuade the bird quite clearly to keep on moving.  If they are not allowed to land or roost, they will be looking for different areas to go to. 

The same is true for electric tracks.  Electric tracks are even more unnoticeable as they do not have spikes but only a ¼” height at its highest point.  The mild electric shock that the bird receives when trying to land will not harm them in any way.  Neither will the bird spikes.  The bird spikes have blunted ends so as not to pierce the bird or the person installing them.  The electric track is harmless to the bird, but annoying enough to create an atmosphere where they will not want to stick around.

Being proactive in initiating bird repellents will create an environment free of pest birds, and make your venue more accessible and agreeable to potential guests.  With a little foresight and planning, catching pest bird problems before they become huge problems will save many hours of clean up, ensuring many hours ahead of a bird free environment.