Spiky bird repellent strips, also known as bird spikes or bird deterrent spikes, are devices used to humanely prevent birds from landing and roosting in certain areas. Bird spikes consist of rows of stainless steel or plastic spikes that are affixed to ledges, signs, rooftops, and other surfaces to make it impossible for birds to gain a foothold.
Bird spikes have become a popular and effective bird deterrent in recent years. They offer several advantages over other bird control products:
How do bird spikes work?
Bird spikes work by providing a series of prickly plastic or stainless steel spikes that are uncomfortable for birds to land on. The spikes are spaced close enough together that birds cannot easily land between them or grip them with their feet. The spikes do not harm the birds, they simply discourage them from landing on the protected surface.
Why are bird spikes used?
There are a few main reasons bird spikes may be installed:
- To deter birds from nesting or roosting in a certain area. This helps prevent droppings, feathers, and other mess from accumulating.
- To stop birds from eating or damaging crops, gardens, or landscaping.
- To prevent damage to infrastructure. Birds can corrode or erode surfaces with their waste.
- For sanitary reasons. Bird droppings can spread diseases, so spikes help keep birds away from sensitive areas like food plants.
- To protect boats, which birds can damage with their acidic droppings.
- For pest control. Pigeons, seagulls, crows and other “pest birds” can be safely discouraged with spikes.
Installing spikes is an animal-friendly way to control bird problems compared to traps, poisons, or shooting. The spikes simply make an area uncomfortable for landing, so birds will look for alternative places to perch.
Types of Bird Spikes
There are a few different types of bird spike systems available:
Plastic Bird Spikes
Plastic spikes are the most affordable option. They are made from UV-stabilized polycarbonate or nylon. Plastic spikes come in individual strips or mats that can be cut to size.
- Pros: Low cost, easy installation, suitable for simple jobs
- Cons: Less durable than metal, can be damaged by very large birds
Stainless Steel Spikes
Stainless steel spikes last longer than plastic models. They are very strong and resistant to the elements.
- Pros: Very durable, suitable for harsh environments, low maintenance
- Cons: More expensive than plastic, requires some specialized tools to install
“Flexible” Spike Strips
These have bendable plastic spikes that can conform to curved surfaces like statues or poles. The spikes are attached to a flexible plastic backing that is easy to wrap around objects.
Electric Bird Spikes
Electric bird spikes give birds a harmless but startling shock if they try to land. These are more expensive but provide added deterrent.
Where are Bird Spikes Commonly Installed?
Some of the most common places bird spikes are installed include:
- Building ledges
- Signs and light posts
- Roof edges
- Window sills
- Gutters
- Statues and monuments
- Fences and railings
- Ledges and beams on bridges
- Pole mount transformers
- Pipelines
- Piers, docks, and boathouses
- Aquaculture facilities
They can be used anywhere birds tend to congregate, roost, nest or perch.
How to Install Bird Spikes
Installing bird spikes takes some careful measuring, cutting, and mounting. Here are some installation tips:
- Measure the surface and cut spikes to fit, leaving no gaps birds could land in
- Thoroughly clean and dry the installation surface
- Use adhesive made for outdoor use to attach spikes to surface
- For complex surfaces, use flexible spike strips that can mold to shape
- On peaked or angled surfaces, run spikes in rows from top to bottom
- Use screw mounts if adhesive isn’t possible, pre-drill holes
- Make sure rows overlap correctly to prevent gaps
- Use end caps to close any open ends of spikes
- Consider adding a wire mesh base if surface has gaps or is uneven
Proper installation is key to making sure spikes deter birds. Any spaces or gaps could allow roosting.
Main Pros of Bird Spikes
Bird spikes offer many benefits:
- Humanely prevent roosting and nesting
- Don’t harm birds in any way
- Long-lasting when properly installed
- Low maintenance once in place
- Allow light and air flow unlike netting solutions
- Come in different colors to blend in
- Can be used alongside other deterrents
- Effective against a variety of bird species
For these reasons, spikes present a permanent solution to bird problems for many structures.
Potential Cons of Using Bird Spikes
The main downsides of spikes include:
- Visible deterrent that alters aesthetics of building
- Costly for large jobs
- May not deter all bird species
- Improper installation can render them ineffective
- Birds may redirect to other undesirable areas instead
- Difficult to install on curved or complex surfaces
Despite these disadvantages, spikes remain the top choice for permanently blocking bird access in many situations.
Alternatives to Bird Spikes
Some other bird deterrent options include:
Bird Netting
Mesh netting can be draped over building ledges or protected areas. More visually intrusive than spikes.
Bird Wire
Strands of stainless steel wire can make landing difficult. Less effective than spikes for smaller birds.
Bird Gel
Gel products make surfaces sticky and uncomfortable to land on. Require frequent reapplication.
Predator Effigies
Fake owls, snakes and hawks can frighten certain birds. Limited effectiveness.
Ultrasonic Repellers
Devices emit high-frequency sound waves birds dislike. Audible to humans and limited range.
Electric Tracks
Low-voltage electric strips can shock birds. More expensive to install and operate.
Each deterrent has pros and cons. In most cases, bird spikes offer the best results for the investment.
Conclusion
Bird spikes are an affordable, safe and effective bird deterrent. The sharp plastic or metal spikes make surfaces uncomfortable for birds to land on without harming them. When properly installed, spikes can provide long-term protection from bird droppings and damage to infrastructure. They are a humane solution for dealing with pest bird problems in urban and coastal areas. While bird spikes may not be the most visually appealing, their proven effectiveness makes them a go-to choice for permanently blocking bird access for many structures and properties.
