Will reflective tape scare birds away?

Bird deterrents like reflective tape are commonly used to try and keep birds away from certain areas. But does reflective tape actually work to scare birds away? Let’s take a look at the evidence.

What is reflective tape?

Reflective tape, also known as flash tape or deterrent tape, is a shiny metallic tape that reflects light and creates flashing effects. It often comes in red, silver, or other bright colors. When moved by the wind or sunlight, the reflecting surface creates shining, flickering effects that may startle or frighten birds.

Reflective tape can be purchased at hardware stores, garden centers, or online. It is frequently used by homeowners, farmers, and airport managers seeking to scare birds away from their properties. Some common applications of reflective tape as a bird deterrent include:

• Wrapping around support beams in airplane hangars
• Placing on fences, patio covers, and rooftops
• Tying strands across fields and gardens
• Attaching to scarecrow poles

The goal of using reflective tape is that the flashing light and movement will overload birds’ senses and condition them to avoid those areas. But is reflective tape actually effective at scaring birds away long-term?

Does reflective tape work on birds?

The effectiveness of reflective tape at repelling birds is questionable and seems to depend on the specific situation. Here is a look at some research on both sides:

Studies showing reflective tape deters birds

• A 2002 study by Utah State University found that reflective tape reduced bird damage to sweet cherry crops by around 50%.
• Researchers at Purdue University reported in 2009 that reflective tape decreased bird activity at feedlots by over 70% compared to control sites.
• A 2010 study found that reflective tape installed above blueberry bushes reduced bird damage by 75% compared to untreated sites.

These studies suggest reflective tape can deter at least some species of birds from feeding on agricultural crops. The flickering light effects seem to frighten them away initially.

Studies showing reflective tape has mixed or minimal effects

• Research at Cornell University found that reflective tape only reduced bird damage to grapes by around 15% compared to untreated sites.
• Washington State University researchers reported in 1999 that reflective tape was mostly ineffective at deterring European starlings from eating grapes.
• A USDA study in 2018 tested reflective tape at airports and found only a 15% reduction in bird strikes compared to control areas.

These studies indicate reflective tape provides limited protection at best. Many bird species quickly learn to ignore and feed around the flashing effects.

Key factors influencing effectiveness

Research suggests the effectiveness of reflective tape depends on several factors:

• Bird species – Smaller birds like sparrows appear more easily frightened than larger, more stubborn birds like crows or geese.
• Hunger motivation – Birds are less deterred when highly motivated by hunger or limited food sources.
• Installation method – Tape should be installed in grid or zig-zag patterns and moved occasionally to create more flashing effects.
• Color – Some studies found red more effective than silver, while others found minimal color difference.
• Complementary deterrents – Reflective tape works best alongside other scare tactics like sounds and decoys.

Considering these factors can help maximize the effectiveness of reflective tape for a given species and situation. But most experts recommend not relying on reflective tape alone.

Pros and cons of using reflective tape

Here are some key advantages and disadvantages of using reflective tape as a bird deterrent:

Potential benefits

• Low cost and widely available.
• Easy to install.
• Visual presence may deter other pests like rodents.
• Provides moderate protection for some agricultural crops when birds are less motivated.
• May be more effective on small bird species.

Potential drawbacks

• Many bird species quickly adapt and learn to ignore the flashing effects.
• Minimal effectiveness on large stubborn bird species like starlings, crows, geese.
• Frequent re-installation required as birds acclimate.
• Can deteriorate or blow away over time.
• May require permit for installation in public areas.

Since reflective tape provides only moderate protection at best, it is usually recommended to use it sparingly and in combination with other deterrents like audio alarms or physical barriers for a more comprehensive bird control strategy.

Best practices for using reflective tape

Here are some tips to maximize the effectiveness of reflective tape for deterring birds:

• Install in a grid pattern with strands no more than 5-10 feet apart.
• Place strands in varying directions for maximum flashing effects.
• Attach tightly to secure surfaces so tape does not blow away in wind.
• Move tape around to new locations every 2-4 weeks so birds do not acclimate.
• Combine with other deterrents like distress calls, predator decoys, or physical barriers.
• Use metal clasps to securely attach tape instead of weak twist ties.
• Deploy early before birds develop habits and when motivation is lower.
• Target small stubborn birds – tape is less effective on larger species.

When installed following these best practices, reflective tape can provide some additional protection against certain bird species. But it generally works best as part of an integrated pest management plan rather than a standalone solution.

Alternatives to reflective tape

Here are some other options to consider instead of or in addition to using reflective tape:

Audio deterrents

• Distress calls – Recording of birds in distress scares feeding birds.
• Predator calls – Noise of predatory hawks or owls induces fear.
• Sonic devices – Ultrasonic or mimicked alarm calls pressure birds to leave.

Physical barriers

• Netting – Draping protective netting over plants blocks bird access.
• Wires – Overhead wires make landing and perching difficult.
• Spikes – Placing spikes on ledges deters roosting.

Visual deterrents

• Scarecrows – Fake human figures frighten birds.
• Predator decoys – Fake or inflatable hawks and snakes mimic threats.
• Laser lights – Sweep of light alters bird flight paths.

Using a combination of different deterrent types is generally the most effective approach. Reflective tape can complement other scare tactics for a stronger overall bird control strategy.

Conclusion

Reflective tape provides moderate bird deterrent effects at best when used alone. Research shows its effectiveness depends greatly on the specific situation. While the flashing lights may initially frighten some species, many birds quickly adapt and ignore the effects. Using reflective tape in combination with other deterrents and following best practices can maximize the potential benefits. But for the most stubborn bird problems, stronger solutions like physical exclusion are likely needed. In the end, reflective tape alone offers limited protection against persistent bird pests in many settings.