What is bird deterrence?

Bird deterrence is a collective term for provisions that stop birds from perching or nesting on certain parts of a building. Think of the edge of a gutter, roof edges, balcony railings, window sills and the space under the roof tiles. Often pigeons are the target, hence terms such as pigeon control and pigeon spikes. In Dutch it is called vogelwering. The main aim is to prevent fouling: droppings are unhygienic, dirty facades, can block gutters and in the long run damage some materials.

Types of bird deterrence

• Spikes (pigeon spikes): strips with stainless steel or plastic pins on places where birds like to sit. They prevent landing but do not injure the birds.
• Tension wire: a thin steel wire a short distance above a ledge, so birds cannot stand on it steadily.
• Nets: keep birds out of recesses, courtyards and from under canopies. Effective, but not always attractive.
• Scarers: ribbons, spirals and reflective objects that move in the wind. Often work only temporarily, because birds get used to them.
• Acoustic scarers: devices with a sensor that play calls of birds of prey. They can be a nuisance to neighbours.
• Eaves combs and vogelvides: at the eaves, against nesting under the tiles.

Law and nature

Bird deterrence must not injure birds and must never close off an occupied nest. In the Netherlands, all breeding birds are protected during the breeding season, and the nest sites of house sparrows and swifts are protected all year round; closing off such a site is an offence. In many other countries active nests are also protected by law, so check your local wildlife protection rules. Install deterrents outside the breeding season and check for nests first. If in doubt, ask the local authority or an ecologist for advice.

Tips

• Tackle the cause: food, open bins and holes in the roof attract birds. Deterrents work better once those sources are gone.
• Clean first: remove droppings before gluing or screwing on spikes or wire. Wear gloves and a dust mask while doing so.
• Cover the whole spot: otherwise birds simply move along a little.
• Watch the gutter: spikes in a gutter can trap leaves. Choose a system that keeps the drainage clear and inspect the gutter more often.

Related terms

• Eaves bird comb
• Vogelvide
• Eaves
• Nest box
• Chimney bird guard

Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.