Installing bird nets is one of the most effective ways to keep pest birds at bay and protect your property. Whether you’re dealing with pigeons roosting on a roof or starlings invading a warehouse, a properly installed bird net creates a physical barrier that blocks birds out without harming them. If you’re wondering how to scare birds away safely and permanently, this guide will walk you through an installation guide for bird netting step by step.

We’ll also discuss how netting fits into broader bird control solutions – from high tech laser bird repellent systems systems to traditional methods like bird control spikes, hawk kites, and bird mesh; to achieve comprehensive and humane bird control.

What Are Bird Nets and Why Use Them?

Bird netting is a strong mesh, usually made from nylon or polyethylene, designed to stop birds from entering certain areas. It offers immediate and long lasting protection by physically blocking access without harming the birds. The mesh allows air and light through but is too small for birds to pass, making it a silent and humane solution.

Different mesh sizes suit different species; for example, larger mesh for pigeons and smaller for sparrows. Choosing the right type is essential to match the site and target birds. Netting is widely used in places from farms to factories and is often combined with other methods like lasers or sound devices for broader coverage.

Planning Your Bird Netting Installation

Before starting installation, careful planning will make the process smoother and ensure the netting works effectively.

1. Assess the Area: Examine where you need to exclude birds and note the size, shape, and any natural attachment points like beams or posts.

2. Measure and Choose the Right Net: Measure carefully and add extra for fastening. Choose a mesh smaller than the target bird species and select strong, UV resistant material for outdoor use.

3. Gather Materials: You will need perimeter wire, hooks or bolts, turnbuckles, cable ties or clips, and basic tools like a drill, pliers, and a ladder. Lay everything out in advance and consider having help, as large nets are easier to handle with two people.

4. Timing and Safety: Choose a calm day to avoid wind issues. Use ladders or harnesses safely and wear gloves to protect your hands.

How to Install Bird Netting

1. Install Perimeter Supports: Fix hooks or eye bolts around the area. Run and tighten a strong perimeter wire using turnbuckles to create a firm frame for the net.
2. Unfold and Position the Net: Lay out the net to find edges and corners. Attach one corner to the wire first, then secure along one side using cable ties or clips every 30 to 50 cm.
3. Secure All Sides: Continue attaching the net around the entire frame, keeping it tight to avoid sagging. Use UV resistant ties and do not overstretch the mesh.
4. Check for Gaps and Tension: Inspect carefully for gaps, especially in corners and seams. Overlap joins well and ensure edges are snug. Add extra supports if needed to keep the net taut.
5. Test the Installation: Check the net is secure, tight, and covers the full area. Push in the middle — it should feel firm and resist movement. Confirm that doors and equipment can still operate freely.

Considerations During Bird Net Installation

• Work Carefully at Heights: Use stable ladders or lifting equipment and have a partner to assist. For very high or tricky areas, consider hiring professionals.
• Avoid Windy Conditios: Install on a calm day to avoid losing balance or struggling with the net.
• Protect Hands and Eyes: Wear gloves to prevent cuts and safety glasses to protect from debris or wire ends.
• Be Bird Conscious: Choose the right mesh size to keep birds out without trapping them. Tidy up any loose netting, and release any bird caught by mistake, then fix the entry point.

Maintenance and Long Term Care of Bird Nets

• Regular Inspections: Check nets monthly or at least each season for tears or loose areas. Fix small holes early before birds exploit them.
• Repairing Damage: Mend small tears with twine or zip ties, and patch larger holes with spare net material. Replace nets if they become heavily weathered or weakened.
• Cleaning: Remove debris like leaves and dust once or twice a year to prevent weight build up and keep nets less visible.
• Monitoring Effectiveness: Watch for birds trying to get in. If they succeed, look for gaps and fix them. A well maintained net should fully block access.
• Humane Considerations: Ensure nets remain safe and do not trap birds. Free any animals caught and adjust the net to prevent future issues.

Combining Bird Nets with Other Bird Control Solutions

While bird netting works well on its own, it is even more effective when combined with other methods as part of an integrated bird control strategy.

• Laser Bird Repellent Systems: Automated lasers scare birds away from large open areas, making them ideal for fields or big warehouse spaces where nets are impractical. Lasers keep broad zones clear, while nets protect smaller, critical areas.
• Bird Control Spikes: Spikes stop birds from perching on narrow surfaces like ledges and signs. They work well alongside nets, especially at edges, to prevent birds from accessing or pecking at the net.
• Hawk Kites and Visual Deterrents: Hawk kites act as moving predator decoys to scare birds from wide outdoor areas. They reduce bird numbers nearby, while nets provide a solid barrier for crops, buildings, or specific trees.
• Bird Mesh and Proofing: Mesh covers small gaps, vents, and crevices to stop birds entering buildings. Used with nets and spikes, it creates a fully bird proof structure.

All these methods are humane, focusing on exclusion and deterrence rather than harm, and comply with UK wildlife laws. By combining them, you achieve stronger, longer lasting protection.

Integrated Bird Management: Professional Bird Control Solutions

By investing in the best long term bird control solutions for your facility and using an integrated approach you can protect your property, maintain hygiene and safety, and finally put an end to chronic bird problems. Birds might be clever, but with the right combination of spikes, netting, and high tech deterrents (and a bit of maintenance), you’ll stay one step ahead and keep your site bird free for the long run.

Our Services

Need Expert Bird Control Solutions?

If you’re dealing with bird related issues on your property, our team at Integrated Bird Management is here to help. Contact us today for expert guidance on sustainable bird control solutions. Our team is always happy to answer any questions you may have or arrange a site assessment.

Integrated Bird Management offers the AVIX Autonomic Mark II, an advanced laser bird deterrent that provides continuous, automated protection against nuisance birds. Birds see the laser as a physical threat and immediately leave the area, making this a highly effective and humane solution.

Unlike traditional methods, the AVIX Autonomic is silent, preventing noise disturbances, and birds do not become accustomed to it, ensuring long term success. With low maintenance requirements, the system operates efficiently with only a laser bulb replacement every 3-5 years.