Tips and Tricks: 10 tips for installing stainless steel bird spikes

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October 1, 2013

By Chrissy Hansen
Technical Writer, Bird-X, Inc.

One of the most effective, long-lasting, low-maintenance bird control solutions is the stainless steel bird spike. Stainless steel bird spikes have been used for years on buildings and structures worldwide to prevent pest birds from roosting and nesting on landing surfaces.

Stainless steel spikes are not harmful to birds; they are just extremely uncomfortable and intimidating. And because they physically prevent birds from landing on surfaces, bird spikes are effective everywhere they are installed.

Different widths of stainless steel spikes are available, depending on the situation. When choosing a commercial-grade stainless steel bird spike, consider the “spread” and number of spikes per foot to get the best coverage for your installation. Here are 10 more tips for installing stainless steel bird spikes — and getting the best long-term results:

1. Install early — Install before “bird season” begins. It’s easier to keep birds away than to route them once they’ve already established a living pattern.

2. Know the laws — Familiarize yourself with the legal and public relations environment; there may be regulations in your area for the particular species you are repelling.

3. Remove all traces of bird infestation — Clean up droppings, dead birds, and the remaining scent. For common pest birds such as pigeons (and for other species where permitted by law), remove current nests and fledglings.

4. Eliminate bird appeal — Get rid of whatever is attracting the birds to the area, such as food spillage, garbage, etc.

5. Consider alternate locations — Apply bird control efforts to nearby areas where the birds may go when they leave the current site.

6. Repair surfaces — If there is surface damage, repair before applying the stainless steel bird spikes.

7. Consider higher perches — Remove overhanging branches, minimize elevated foliage, and be sure to apply spikes to the highest surfaces possible.

8. Maintain a clean environment — Continue to clean any debris and droppings.

9. Get creative — Cover all exposed surfaces, corners and crevices. Birds can be stubborn, and will look for ways to get around the installation if nearby surfaces are left unprotected.

10. Use other products synergistically — There may be areas where it is not possible to apply spikes; implementing an alternative bird control product like a visual scare or sound repeller in these areas is the best way to achieve success. While spikes will effectively treat individual surfaces and trouble spots, wide-area coverage is best gained by a multi-sensory attack — yielding much greater effectiveness than any one product alone.

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