Urban birds like seagulls and pigeons are a common sight in cities, but when they start nesting on rooftops, balconies, and ledges, they can become a real nuisance. From noisy calls to unsightly droppings and property damage, dealing with these birds can be frustrating.
One of the most widely used solutions is anti-bird netting—but does it actually work? Let’s explore how effective bird netting is at deterring seagulls, pigeons, and other common urban birds, and what you need to consider to make sure it does the job properly.
How Does Anti-Bird Netting Work?
Bird netting is designed to create a physical barrier that prevents birds from accessing specific areas. Unlike harmful deterrents, netting doesn’t injure birds—it simply stops them from landing, roosting, or nesting in places where they’re not wanted.
Netting is commonly used on:
- Rooftops and ledges
- Balconies and terraces
- Gardens and allotments
- Industrial buildings and warehouses
- Bridges and public spaces
The key to effectiveness lies in choosing the right type of netting for the birds you’re trying to deter. Different species require different mesh sizes and materials to ensure they’re properly blocked without getting tangled or injured. Check out bird deterrent services by Apex Bird Control for the best approach.
How Effective Is Netting for Different Urban Birds?
Seagulls
Seagulls are persistent, intelligent, and often aggressive when it comes to nesting. They’re known for returning to the same spots year after year, so preventing them from settling in the first place is crucial.
- Best Netting Size: 75mm mesh
- Effectiveness: High (if installed correctly)
- Challenges: Seagulls are strong and may try to tear weak netting
Key Tip: Use heavy-duty, UV-resistant netting and ensure it’s installed tightly to withstand their strength.
Pigeons
Pigeons are one of the most common urban pests, roosting on buildings, ledges, and under bridges. Their droppings can cause damage to structures and even pose health risks.
- Best Netting Size: 50mm mesh
- Effectiveness: Very high
- Challenges: Gaps in netting can allow pigeons to squeeze through
Key Tip: Combine netting with other deterrents like spikes to reinforce protection.
Starlings and Small Birds
Starlings, sparrows, and other small birds often nest in crevices, vents, and roof spaces, leading to blocked gutters and infestations. They can be harder to keep out than larger birds because they fit into tiny gaps.
- Best Netting Size: 19mm-28mm mesh
- Effectiveness: High
- Challenges: Small birds can find gaps in loosely fitted netting
Key Tip: Ensure netting is tightly secured with no loose edges where small birds could slip through.
Anti-Bird Netting – Should I Install This Myself?
Costs are going up for everything, which means many property owners look for DIY solutions to their problems. Namely, if you have a bird problem and are interested in installing a netting system, you might wonder whether this should be a project you can take on yourself. After all, it could save you money and hassle. While this is true, there are also many disadvantages to this approach. We’re talking about a non-durable system, as well as one that’s not secure enough to keep birds out. Here are some questions you need to ask yourself before making up your mind on DIY installation.
Do You Have Experience?
The first thing you must consider is whether you’ve installed anti-bird solutions before. If the answer is no, this is when you need to think about whether you’re up to the task. For example, you need to know how to securely fix the netting system to your building. Then, you have to think about if you can work at a height, which can be scary and dangerous. If you don’t have the right experience, you can end up damaging your property or installing a netting system that doesn’t work.
Do You Have the Right Materials?
From the beginning, you must have quality materials for anti-bird netting. Otherwise, it’s not going to be durable enough for using all year round and it can allow birds to get through. For instance, cheap netting might be appealing when it comes to price. But, it won’t stand up to adverse weather conditions. Therefore, you need to think about whether you can get your hands on quality materials. Experts know where to get it and ensure a good price.
Do You Have the Time?
Let’s not forget that the time you decide you want anti-bird solutions, it can be too late. In other words, if you already have a bird problem, you need to act quickly before they build a nest. So, consider whether you have the time to hunt down the right materials, learn how to install it and carry out the process. Experts know how ot get things done quickly without compromising on quality.
Final Verdict: Does Bird Netting Work?
Yes, anti-bird netting is one of the most effective, humane, and long-term solutions for keeping seagulls, pigeons, and other urban birds away. When installed correctly, it provides a strong barrier that stops birds from roosting or nesting without causing harm.
The key to success is:
- Choosing the right mesh size for the bird species
- Using durable, weather-resistant materials
- Ensuring tight, secure installation to prevent gaps
- Regularly checking for wear and tear
If you’re struggling with persistent birds in your area, anti-bird netting could be the perfect solution. Would you like recommendations on the best type of netting for your situation?
