by Pigeon Patrol | Aug 6, 2015 | Bird Deterrent Products, Bird Netting, Pigeon Patrol's Services, Pigeon Spikes, UltraSonic Bird Control
‘Scarey Man’ Inflated
OVERVIEW
The ‘Scarey Man’ inflatable scarecrow is an electrically operated bird control scaring device based on the traditional scarecrow and operating from a battery power source. Scarey Man has its main application in the agricultural sector and is used to scare a wide variety of agricultural pests such as wood pigeon and the corvid family (crows, rooks etc.). Scarey Man is also commonly used as a bird control device to scare seagulls in both urban and rural applications, waterfowl and herons from lakes and ponds and birds from fruit and vegetable crops.
The Scarey Man inflatable scarecrow is a 5’6” tall inflatable man constructed of heavy-duty and brilliantly coloured PVC. Scarey Man is fully automated and inflates every 18 minutes for 25 seconds throughout daylight hours, switching off at night. Alternatively an optional pre-set timer can be fitted providing 4 set periods of operation every 24 hours. During operational periods the device inflates and deflates as well as emitting a loud noise. Scarey Man can also be used at night via an optional extra light sensor which will illuminate the unit over and above its standard operation. Both noise and illumination can be switched independently. A variable timer is also available as an optional extra which allows the user to adjust display frequency.
‘Scarey Man’ Deflated
Scarey Man inflatable scarecrow is operated via a 12-volt battery with the unit running for 14 days between charges. A ‘battery low’ indicator light is provided to alert the user when the unit needs to be re-charged. The battery can be housed either inside or outside the base unit with the internal battery housing being impervious to most weather conditions.
Most bird control scaring devices, static or otherwise, fail to be effective as a stand-alone deterrent and need to be complimented with other scaring and anti-perching products in order to be effective. The main benefit of Scarey Man over traditional static bird control devices is that the product incorporates movement, sound and visual stimulus in one unit. Although there are minor disadvantages inherent in the use of Scarey Man, (such as the fact that the device can be blown over in strong winds when sited in exposed areas), the product appears to offer the potential to be effective in many different applications and for the control of a wide range of species.
‘Scarey Man’ Base Unit
Scarey Man has been used to great effect in numerous countries worldwide including the USA and Canada, Australia and many European countries. Scarey Man will act as a scaring device for both birds and animals. Bird species that it has been used to deter include crows, collared doves, seagulls, cormorants, pigeons, starlingsand magpies. The unit has also been successfully used to deter protected species of birds and waterfowl such as swifts and swans.
Although Scarey Man was designed with the protection of crops in mind, there are numerous other applications for the device. Scarey Man can be used to stop herons from predating on fish in fish farms and fishing ponds, making the device a good commercial option for fish farmers and fishing clubs alike. Scarey Man has also been trialled by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds(RSPB) as a scaring device to deter gulls from competing with nesting terns. Scarey Man can be used as a bird control device to deter birds from exploiting fruit in vineyards and orchards as well as protecting ground-hugging fruit crops such as strawberries. There are many other applications for this device, including urban applications, making it an extremely versatile bird control device with low running costs and the added advantage that the product is completely humane and non-lethal.
DEFRA’s view:
The Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is the UK’s Government body that oversees the Wildlife and Countryside Act and produces legislation to which the pest control industry must adhere. The following information is taken from a document provided on DEFRA website entitled: ‘Review of international research regarding the effectiveness of auditory bird scaring techniques and potential alternatives’. By J Bishop, H McKay, D Parrott and J Allan.
“Predator models, such as scarecrows, are common, traditional methods used in attempts to scare avian pests. They mimic the appearance of a predator and so cause birds to take flight to avoid potential predation (Harris and Davis 1998). Most scarecrows are human-shaped effigies, usually constructed from inexpensive materials; Knittle and Porter (1988) report that simple scarecrows made from black plastic bags attached to wooden stakes are effective at deterring waterfowl from grain fields, as long as the effigies are put out before the birds arrive.”
“In general, however, motionless devices either provide only short-term protection or are ineffective as the threat from them is only perceived rather than real. In a survey of hatchery managers in the United States only one of the 14 hatchery managers who commented on the effectiveness of various control techniques said that scarecrows had a high success rate. Six said they had no effect (Parkhurst et al. 1987). Some birds may even come to associate them with favourable conditions (Inglis 1980).”
“To maximise effectiveness devices should possess biological significance, appear lifelike, be highly visible and their location changed frequently in order to extend the period of habituation (Vaudry 1979). The effectiveness of scarecrows may be enhanced if fitted with loose clothing and bright streamers that move and create noise in the wind (Vaudry 1979) – effectively becoming a moving visual.”
“Recently, several types of moving, inflatable human effigies have become commercially available. One of these, the Scarey Man inflatable scarecrow is marketed worldwide. Created by a Cambridgeshire farmer the Scarey Man is a life-size plastic effigy powered by a 12 volt car battery, that inflates rapidly, emits a high pitched wail and may illuminate at night. Inflation occurs about every 18 minutes and lasts for 25 seconds. According to the Pest-Away Australia website, one Scarey Man costs AU$1390.00 and can give up to 6 hectares of crop coverage. For smaller sites, the Scarey Boy is now available (Clarretts Ltd.).”
“Australian testimonials on the Pest-Away Australia website state that the use of Scarey Man is effective at preventing crows from damaging melon crops. Andelt et al. (1997) tested it’s effectiveness at deterring black-crowned night-herons (Nycticorax nycticorax) and great blue herons (Ardea herodias) from a fish rearing unit in Colorado. Two manikins were programmed to activate for 35-40 seconds every 9-10 minutes from about 1700 or 2045 through to 0800 hours in order to frighten birds during their peak feeding times. Numbers of birds were reduced only during the first four nights of the trial. After that time, numbers of both species increased significantly. Birds quickly habituated to the manikins and so Scarey Man was deemed ineffective at scaring herons from the fish-rearing unit.”
“Stickley and King (1995) also used Scarey Man to repel double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocoax auritus) from catfish ponds. Ten mannekins were deployed, an average of one for every 14 hectares of surface water. Cormorant numbers dropped during the first week of use, but by the 11th day it was felt they were beginning to lose their effectiveness. Despite trying to enhance its effect by placing hats and camouflage masks on the devices, changing their positions and substituting shooters for Scarey Man, levels of birds could not be reduced further. Despite some habituation within two weeks, the overall conclusion was that Scarey Man could only be recommended in cases where cormorant depredations were a serious problem.”
“Other animated scarecrows have met with varying success. Conniff (1991) describes a jack-in-a-box device with inflatable arms, revolving strobe lights and amplified sounds (130dB, distance unknown) of horns honking, people shouting, shotguns and birds screaming. This scarecrow was declared ‘ineffectual’ against cormorants.”
“Another device developed and tested by the Denver Wildlife Research Centre (Cummings et al. 1986) combined an inflatable plastic scarecrow with a propane exploder. Costing about US$900 (or US$14/0.4 hectares (1 acre) based on a ten year life for the unit), this was effective for deterring blackbirds from sunflowers in some fields; it was less effective in fields where the birds had an established feeding pattern.”
“Ultimately, however lifelike, under most circumstances scarecrows do not present a threat that is sufficiently alarming to birds (Inglis 1980). Over a period of time birds learn that effigies or models do not represent an actual threat and are no longer alarmed by them. To increase the threat and therefore the habituation time, it is recommended that these devices be reinforced with other sound-producing or visual deterrents. Ideally, for example, scarecrows should be periodically reinforced by human activity.”
Price range:
The Scarey Man inflatable scarecrow is currently available in the UK and for worldwide distribution. The price of a basic unit is £320.00 + VAT ranging though to £395.00 + VAT for a unit with all the optional extras included.
User reviews:
RSPB – Coquet Island
The RSPB has trialled Scarey Man on one of its reserves off the coast of Northumberland. Coquet Island is home to approximately 30,000 pairs of breeding seabirds including 3 species on the RSPB’s ‘Red’ list (species of high conservation concern) and 5 species on the RSPB’s ‘Amber’ list (species of lower conservation concern). The increase in numbers of herring gull and black-backed gull was a cause of concern in relation to competition with the tern for nesting space and also the predation of tern eggs and chicks by both species of gull.
The RSPB employed a number of different bird control devices in an effort to deter gulls from impacting on the tern population and these controls included the use of gas guns, distress calls, human disturbance, ‘humming line’, scarer rope and Scarey Man. The following comments are taken from an RSPB document entitled ‘The effectiveness of different methods of deterring large gulls Larus spp. from competing with nesting terns Sterna spp. on Coquet Island RSPB reserve, Northumberland, England’ by P Morrison and RI Allcorn:
“Initially a traditional scarecrow, constructed from two sticks, a plastic head, a boiler suit and a fluorescent jacket, was used. This was erected after the puffins had arrived back. In 2004, an inflatable scarecrow, a ‘scary man’ was introduced. Once activated the scary man inflates and deflates five times every eighteen minutes. Scary man was modified in 2005 to be activated by remote control from a hide. There is a light and a siren attached to the inflatable, both of which can be operated independently of each other. The scary man was re-positioned regularly whilst deployed to maximize its effect. It cannot be used in strong winds, as it is easily blown over, reducing its effectiveness.”
“The original scarecrow had some success within the puffin nesting areas, with gulls avoiding the immediate proximity but had less success in reducing overall gull numbers on island.
“2004 was the first year that the scary man was used. It was targeted against gulls loafing on the south beach. Juvenile gulls flew off immediately after the initial inflation whilst adult herring gulls only flew on the fifth inflation. During the period when it was intended to deploy the scary man, there were few gulls on the intertidal zone and the weather conditions were unfavourable, rendering any judgements of its usefulness questionable. To be most effective the scary man needs to be positioned as close as possible to the sites the gulls use, but as all the control switches are on the scary man itself, the presence of the person setting up or activating the scary man tends to scare the gulls away. More trials need to be conducted to find out the true effectiveness, including night scaring trials (using the light and siren) and to investigate the potential for remote control or pre-programming (as done in 2005). A hide might be needed from which to undertake observations to assess its effectiveness, as otherwise human presence might confound the results.”
“The scary man did scare gulls from the beach with the return rates of the birds being between 10-15 minutes. Given the correct timings on inflation, this could prove a useful deterrent to gull roost formation and the establishment of breeding territories. There was a limited affect on non-target species, mainly black-headed gull, oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus, fulmar and shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis, but these returned to the area within a few minutes.”
International Paper, Inverurie Mill
A large paper milling plant based in Scotland, some 18 miles from the coast, purchased 2 Scarey Man bird control scarers in 1999 in an attempt to resolve entrenched seagull roosting problems at their milling plant in Inverurie. The mill was experiencing growing problems with gulls roosting on roof areas of the plant and management decided that action needed to be taken.
The problems being experienced by the mill were described as akin to something out of Alfred Hitchcock’s film ‘The Birds’ by Site Services Supervisor Gary Morrison with huge numbers of gulls being attracted to the site for the purposes of roosting. Interestingly no breeding was taking place on the site and the problem was present all year round, not just within the breeding period as is often the case with gull-related problems. Prior to the introduction of Scarey Man scarers, the roof areas were cleaned by an outside contractor and a total of 22 tons of guano was removed from the roofs. This clearly demonstrates the extent of the problem. Guano was found to be blocking drains and causing water ingress problems throughout the site.
One employee suggested trialling Scary Man having seen the product demonstrated on a farming programme as a crop protection of system. Gary Morrison contacted Clarratts, manufacturer and distributor of Scarey Man, and purchased two units for use on an 8000 square metre flat roof. The 2 units were installed on the roof and had an instant effect on the roosting gulls. The gulls immediately moved to the rear area of the roof but were still prepared to use the roof as a roost, albeit as far away from the bird control scarers as possible. Gary Morrison ordered a further 6 units and installed them on the roof – this had the desired effect. The gulls moved from the roof in question as soon as sufficient coverage was achieved by the product.
The gulls then moved to another roof on the site and this time netting was used to protect the 14,000 square metre roof. The bird control netting operation was carried out ‘in-house’ at a total cost of £16-£17,000.00. The company chose to install netting ‘in-house’ based on quotes in the region of £120,000.00 from pest control contractors for netting the roofs.
Gary Morrison explained that they only experienced two minor problems with the product:
The first problem was accessing the roof for the purposes of charging the battery units used for running the devices. The company contacted the manufacturer of Scarey Man and for a small extra charge the units were wired to run on alternating current (AC) rather than on the batteries which use a direct current (DC). This completely resolved the issue.
The second problem was the issue of noise from the audible siren. The Scary Man units were being used throughout the night rather than the day based on the fact that the problem they were being employed to deal with was an overnight roosting problem rather than a daytime perching problem. An employee living 1 mile from the site had been able to hear the noise created by the siren on a still night with no wind. As the units offered switching capabilities the noise element was simply switched off and this completely resolved the problem.
As a bird control scarer the product has been 100% successful as far as International Paper is concerned and although the Scarey Man scarers are still installed on the flat roof areas they have not been activated for the last 3-4 years. This confirms that the product will not only have an immediate effect on the target species when installed and operated as per manufacturers specifications, but it will also induce enough fear into the birds to ensure that they do not return.
The following testimonial is provided by Geoff and Tanya Young, farmers in Queensland, Australia:
“Since purchasing a bird control Scarey Man twelve months ago, we have had outstanding success at scaring birds from our crops. In the past we have used various types of scarers including gas guns and hawk look-alikes, but none of these were anywhere near as effective as the Scarey Man inflatable scarecrow.
We grow various crops throughout the year, including melons and pumpkins and have finally managed to find a way to keep the crows from ruining our crops. Scarey Man has also been successful at chasing away feral pigs, which used to cause a lot of damage.
We find that by placing bundles of material similar in appearance to Scarey Man at intervals around the crop and swapping the real Scarey Man with the ‘dummies’ regularly, we can cover a much larger area, as the birds remain wary of everything that may be a real Scarey Man.
Soon after purchasing Scarey Man, we ordered a Variable Timer from Pest-Away Australia to add to the element of surprise. Scarey Man was already by far the best scaring device we had come across, but with the extra element of surprise of the timer, he was even better.
Scarey Man had paid for himself within the first week, when he successfully protected a melon crop from crows.
David and the staff at Pest-Away Australia have provided us with excellent service and we can thoroughly recommend them and their Scarey Man as a great bird control product.”
Comments from the Manufacturer/Distributor:
The following description of Scarey Man is taken from the Clarratts website:
“Scarey Man is an excellent bird control device for use in a wide range of situations. Using a unique combination of sound and movement he strikes fear into his target prey and keeps them away for longer periods than ‘conventional’ control devices.
Scarey Man can be used in agriculture to deter birds and predators. Protecting young crops from damage (such as pigeon damage in Oil Seed Rape) is no problem, and by keeping pests away Scarey Man can pay for himself very quickly. Field scale crops of all kinds (arable, vegetable, ornamental etc.) can be protected as can orchards and vineyards. Livestock are also protected by Scarey Man, as are fisheries where herons and other fish loving birds need to be deterred.
Whilst Scarey Man was designed originally for bird control in agriculture his use has quickly spread into a multitude of other areas. For example he is used in airports to keep runways clear, and on commercial/residential properties to prevent fouling by pigeons and other birds.”
Michael Barratt, Director of Clarratts said the following about Scarey Man as a bird control product:
“The sudden movement with surprise is the secret success for “The Scarey Man”. The inflatable scarecrow which operates electronically and automatically combines sudden movement, a loud noise, a bird phobic colour (red) and illumination at night, depending which model you require.
Birds and predators faced with these surprise effects are first distracted from feeding and then systematically frightened away from the area as “Scarey Man” continues to deflate and then re-inflate to a commanding height and an intimidating size on a time basis. During operation Scarey Man emits a loud noise and illuminates at night – functions that are independently switched on all models.
The display takes place about every 18 minutes and lasts for approximately 25 seconds as the “Scarey Man” rises and falls, long enough to drive off the pests.
The entire operation carried out by “Scarey Man” may be automatically synchronised to daytime or night-time using a light sensor. Alternatively a pre-set timer can be fitted to set the timed programme you require during a 24 hour cycle.
Sales of “Scarey Man” are for different uses all over the world from pigeons on oilseed rape in the UK to red-billed quelea on wheat crops in Tanzania, cormorants on fisheries and protecting grapes in Australia.”
Editorial comments:
‘Scarey Man’
Deployed in Field
Scarey Man is a versatile and inexpensive bird control scarer that is simple to set up and use and that has relatively low running costs. The unit will hold a 14-day charge (dependent on application and frequency of timed displays) making it a low maintenance option if powered by a battery (DC current). If sited in inaccessible areas the unit can be powered by mains power (AC current) to reduce maintenance. The cost of a basic unit is extremely low relative to other powered bird control scarers and even with all the added extras included, the cost is still under £400.00 per unit representing excellent value for money. The main benefit of Scarey Man over its competitors is versatility with the unit combining three commonly used scaring techniques – noise, light and movement. The fact that the unit is programmable makes it even more versatile and the long list of animals and birds that the product has been used to deter supports the manufacturer’s claims in this respect.
Although Scarey Man was originally designed for use in the agricultural sector, urban applications for the device appear to be far-ranging. Scarey Man has been used to deter a massive roosting flock of gulls from a paper mill in Scotland with a 100% success rate and without using any complementary anti-perching or scaring devices. To have achieved such comprehensive success without the use of complementary controls is almost unheard of, certainly where the control of roosting gulls is concerned. Although the siren was deemed to be a minor nuisance, based on the fact that the unit was being used at night in this application, the switching options allowed the user to switch off the siren whilst still using movement and light as a deterrent. The other minor problem was the man hours required to access the roof area where the units were sited in order to re-charge the batteries every 14-days. This problem was easily resolved by wiring the units to be powered by AC current.
Scarey Man would also appear to be a good bird control option where the control of feral pigeons on roof areas is concerned. One of the most difficult problems for any property owner to manage is how to stop pigeons from perching on pitched or flat roofs. When combined with an anti-perching product such as the anti-roosting spike (and the ridge spike) Scarey Man could be used to great effect as a complementary control in this application.
Scarey Man could also be used on flat roof areas where breeding colonies of gulls are an annual problem. A conventional flat roof bordered by a low wall or parapet is an ideal urban breeding site for many species of gull, with noise and guano-related problems presenting serious issues for residents or those working in the building. By providing a Scarey Man on the flat roof itself, and by installing gull anti-roosting spikes on the wall or parapet, the roof will be far less attractive to gulls. It must be understood, however, that any action taken to deter breeding gulls must start well in advance of the breeding period. Once breeding has started gulls will not be deterred by any scaring device, althoughanti-perching spikes will physically prevent the birds from accessing those areas where the product is installed.
DEFRA’s view is that Scarey Man can be effective in some applications but may need to be used in conjunction with other scaring techniques in order to be completely effective. As with most bird control scaring products, DEFRA’sresearch found that the target species habituates to the device rapidly and therefore Scarey Man may only be appropriate where more serious and entrenched problems are concerned. DEFRA went on to say:
“Over a period of time birds learn that effigies or models do not represent an actual threat and are no longer alarmed by them. To increase the threat and therefore the habituation time, it is recommended that these devices be reinforced with other sound-producing or visual deterrents.”
As Scarey Man combines both sound and movement as well as light it would appear that the product fulfils most of the criteria set out by DEFRA in order to be effective as a stand-alone device.
The RSPB had mixed results when using Scarey Man to control herring gulls and black backed gulls on Coquet Island reserve off the coast of Northumberland. Juvenile gulls were deterred immediately when Scarey Man inflated but adult birds were less worried by the device. The RSPB moved the device regularly in order to increase effectiveness and also modified the device so that it could be operated by remote control from a hide. The one problem the RSPB did experience, however, was the ease with which the unit could be blown over in strong winds, seriously compromising its effectiveness.
The RSPB concluded that more research had to be undertaken to maximise the effectiveness of Scarey Man including trials to assess the effectiveness of the product when used at night. Summing up the RSPB said:
“The scary man did scare gulls from the beach with the return rates of the birds being between 10-15 minutes. Given the correct timings on inflation, this could prove a useful deterrent to gull roost formation and the establishment of breeding territories.”
Scarey Man clearly has a future where the scaring of a wide variety of pest species is concerned and none more so than in the control of gulls in urban or semi-urban environments. Trials carried out by the RSPB suggest that Scarey Man may not be appropriate in exposed applications where it would be difficult or impossible to tether the device to ensure that it did not blow over in strong winds, but in urban or agricultural applications the product clearly has major benefits. As with all scaring products, however, Scarey Man may need to be provided in conjunction with other scaring/anti-perching products to be completely effective and there will be situations where the target species may habituate to the device.
Sources:
DEFRA quotes:
PDF on DEFRA website entitled: ‘Review of international research regarding the effectiveness of auditory bird scaring techniques and potential alternatives’ By J Bishop, H McKay, D Parrott and J Allan.
RSPB quotes:
‘The effectiveness of different methods of deterring large gulls Larus spp. from competing with nesting terns Sterna spp. on Coquet Island RSPB reserve, Northumberland, England’ by P Morrison and RI Allcorn International Paper Ltd: Quotes from Gary Morrison, Site Services Supervisor, International Paper Ltd, Inverurie, Scotland
Also commonly known as:
Inflatable scarecrow, predator balloon, inflatable scarer, inflatable bird scarer
Relevance to pigeon control:
‘Scarey Man’ is a scaring product used mainly in the agricultural sector for the scaring of birds such as the wood pigeon. ‘Scarey Man’ has relevance to feral pigeon control in as much as it may complement an existing anti-perching system
About Pigeon Patrol:
Pigeon Patrol Products & Services is the leading manufacturer and distributor of bird deterrent (control) products in Canada. Pigeon Patrol products have solved pest bird problems in industrial, commercial, and residential settings since 2000, by using safe and humane bird deterrents with only bird and animal friendly solutions. At Pigeon Patrol, we manufacture and offer a variety of bird deterrents, ranging from Ultra-flex Bird Spikes with UV protection, Bird Netting, 4-S Gel and the best Ultrasonic and audible sound devices on the market today.
Voted Best Canadian wholesaler for Bird Deterrent products four years in a row.
Contact Info: 1- 877– 4– NO-BIRD (www.pigeonpatrol.ca)
by Pigeon Patrol | Aug 5, 2015 | 4-S Gel Bird repellent, Animal Deterrent Products, Bird Deterrent Products, Bird Netting, Pigeon Patrol's Services, Pigeon Spikes
OVERVIEW
Replica plastic owls and fake owl decoys are one of the most commonly used bird scaring devices to scare pigeons and other pest species of birds from their perching and roosting sites, predominantly on buildings in town and city centre environments. Fake owl decoys are normally mounted on roof areas where the product can be clearly seen by problem birds as they approach their roosting or perching areas. Replica plastic owls are also often sited in key and sensitive areas on buildings where pigeons are causing specific problems. These areas could be canopies in front of shops or railway stations, or possibly architectural features on period properties where pigeons are causing extreme problems as a result of soiling.
Bird scarer devices and replica plastic owls, are normally life size models of real owls and stand approximately 12″-23″ high depending on which product is chosen and which species of owl is being replicated. The quality of the reproduction varies considerably with some models looking quite life-like and others looking little or nothing like a real owl. A majority of fake plastic owl decoys have no moving parts, although there are now some models on the market like the Rotating Head Owl that move with air currents. Some of the more advanced owl scarers actually move on a rail whilst flapping their wings and making a hooting sound.
Replica Plastic Owl
Fake Owl Decoy
The principle of using a plastic owl decoy as a bird scarer is to use the pest birds instinctive fear of predators and predation to scare the bird away from its desired roosting, perching or breeding areas.
According to manufacturers and distributors claims, the replica plastic owl can be used to scare a wide variety of different species of pest birds in both urban and agricultural environments.
The product is completely humane which will have great appeal for those requiring a non-lethal or non-violent product and the fake plastic owl decoy is also relatively inexpensive to buy.
DEFRA’s view:
The Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is the UK’s Government body that oversees the Wildlife and Countryside Act and produces legislation to which the pest control industry must adhere. The following information is taken from a document provided on DEFRA website entitled: ‘Review of international research regarding the effectiveness of auditory bird scaring techniques and potential alternatives’. By J Bishop, H McKay, D Parrott and J Allan.
“The basis for this scarer is mimicry of real predators and evocation of fear and avoidance in the target species. Most potential prey species react to predator models; the strength of the response, however, varies between species (Conover 1979) and in some cases raptor models can attract rather than repel birds as species like blackbirds and crows often mob owls and owl models (Conover 1983 cited in Harris and Davis 1998).”
“Model raptors fail to incorporate behavioural cues, which may be critical to the induction of fear and avoidance in the target species. Falcons which are “in the mood to hunt” are said to be “sharp set”; such birds are invariably hungry enough to fly at quarry. Although it is hard for human observers to differentiate between a falcon when it is sharp set and conversely well fed, birds will mob a hawk more frequently when sharp set than when well fed. Thus, model raptors will be inherently less threatening and subsequently less effective than live raptors (Inglis 1980).”
“In general, raptor models are inexpensive (£5- £25 for plastic owl models) and easy to deploy. However, birds quickly learn that the model poses no threat and rapidly habituate to it.”
Price range:
Prices for replica plastic owls vary considerably and currently range from £15 through to £25, but the cost is dependent on whether the owl is static (i.e. no moving parts) or whether it has wing, eye or head movement. Some of the more advanced robotic owls cost several hundred pounds and this does not include the cost of installation.
User reviews:
Alistair Brenning, Wales
“Had pigeons sitting on my fence. The owl worked in that it scared them off but eventually they came back.”
Comments from the Manufacturer/Distributor:
The following quotes from those involved with the bird control industry in the USA appear to sum up the general consensus on this product:
Barry Neer, a salesman at Nixalite of America Inc., a company that sells bird scarers said:
“The feedback we get from most customers is that within a few days the birds are sitting right on top of the owl.”
Michael Gelder, owner of Bay Area Bird Control in San Carlos, California said:
“If I see one (plastic owl),” he says “I know that the building still needs attention.”
Bird Barrier America Inc., also based in California, commented:
“There are two ways that replica plastic owls can actually be used as bird deterrents, a) throw the owl hard at them and b) physically block access to the area with the owl.”
In contrast to these views, Neal Caldwell, owner of Dalen Products Inc., of Knoxville, Tennessee, a manufacturer of replica plastic owls, suggests that negative views from within the pest control industry are simply competitive grousing.
Caldwell goes on to say:
”The owl seems to be effective wherever we put them.”
Editorial comments:
Fake owl decoys have received a considerable amount of negative publicity in relation to their effectiveness as a bird deterrent and bird scarer, but sales of the product appear to be consistently high. This may be as a result of the fact that the product is extremely inexpensive to buy and if, once installed, it proves to be ineffective the purchaser may feel that complaining to the retailer is a wasted effort.
Replica Plastic Owl
Fake Owl Decoy
DEFRA’s research clearly suggests that in some cases replica plastic owls can actually attract pest species of birds rather than deter them. DEFR also confirms that the product will only have limited success with some, rather than all species of bird. Where live raptors are flown to deter pest species of birds they are regularly mobbed by the target species, particularly gulls and members of the corvid family (crows, rooks etc). This fact alone suggests that a static plastic owl decoys will have little success in its own right. The owl is a very efficient predator, but it not the natural predator of the gull or the pigeon. In a vast majority of cases plastic owl decoys will be sold to those experiencing problems with these species and as a result the product is likely to fail unless it is provided as part of a comprehensive control system. Even then there is doubt as to whether the fake plastic owl can or will play any useful part.
Both DEFRA’s view, and that of the pest control industry, appears to be the same – the product is ineffective in anything but the very short-term. This may be as a result of the fact that a majority of fake plastic owls are static deterrents with no moving parts and therefore birds will become habituated to them extremely quickly. Broadly speaking, any deterrent that does not move or emit any type of sound or noise is likely to be ignored by many of the most common pest species of birds. There are bird scarer devices available that have moving parts such as moving eyes, head and wings, and some that even make a screeching sound as well, but although these products may have some limited success with timid garden birds such as blackbirds, they are unlikely to play any useful part in a control system designed to resolve an entrenched bird-related problem. It is also clear that although claims are made by both distributor and manufacturer alike that replica plastic owls will be effective in deterring a wide variety of pest species of birds, the reality is that the most common pest species (gulls and pigeons) will remain undeterred by this product.
Replica Plastic Owl
Fake Owl Decoy
The major benefit of this product is that it is inexpensive and relatively simple to install and therefore, if it fails, it can be replaced without too great a loss to the property owner concerned. It should always be understood, however, that there are no ‘quick fixes’ where effective bird management is concerned and if a product or service appears to be ‘too good to be true’, there is a very good chance that it is. Industry standard products such as the anti-roosting spike continue to be the only really effective stand-alone deterrent available to most property owners and in light of this, restricted pest control budgets may be better spent on tried and tested products rather than their ‘quick fix’ counterparts.
Also commonly known as:
Plastic hawks, plastic raptors, owl decoy, plastic owl decoy, decoy birds of prey, hawk decoy, plastic predator, fake owls, fake hawks, robot owls, robotic owls, robotic hawks, fake predator
Relevance to pigeon control:
Replica plastic owls are a pigeon-specific scaring product
About Pigeon Patrol:
Pigeon Patrol Products & Services is the leading manufacturer and distributor of bird deterrent (control) products in Canada. Pigeon Patrol products have solved pest bird problems in industrial, commercial, and residential settings since 2000, by using safe and humane bird deterrents with only bird and animal friendly solutions. At Pigeon Patrol, we manufacture and offer a variety of bird deterrents, ranging from Ultra-flex Bird Spikes with UV protection, Bird Netting, 4-S Gel and the best Ultrasonic and audible sound devices on the market today.
Voted Best Canadian wholesaler for Bird Deterrent products four years in a row.
Contact Info: 1- 877– 4– NO-BIRD (www.pigeonpatrol.ca)
by Pigeon Patrol | Aug 4, 2015 | 4-S Gel Bird repellent, Animal Deterrent Products, Bird Deterrent Products, Bird Netting, Pigeon Patrol's Services, Pigeon Spikes, UltraSonic Bird Control
Daddi Long Legs
OVERVIEW
The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is a unique and versatile anti-perching device that will protect virtually any surface but is specifically designed to protect surfaces that require regular maintenance. The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is a spider-shaped deterrent with a rotating head from which fine stainless steel wire ‘arms’ protrude. This product is manufactured and distributed by a company in the United States called Bird-B-Gone.
The unit is mounted on a UV protected polycarbonate base and comes in three sizes; 1.25 metre diameter, 1.8 metre diameter and 2.5 metre diameter. Each model will protect a circular area equivalent to the spread of its ‘arms’.
The stainless steel ‘arms’ are constructed from extremely thin wire and as a result move and wave freely in the wind. When a bird attempts to land on the surface protected by the device, its feet will touch the ‘arms’ resulting in the bird feeling unsafe and aborting its landing. The ‘arms’ should extend slightly over the area to be protected (2″ is recommended by one supplier) to ensure that birds cannot perch on the edge of the surface. If more than one unit is installed the ‘arms’ of each unit should just touch each other.
The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device can be used to protect a wide variety of surfaces including street lights, air conditioning units, grain silos, flat roofs, boats and virtually any other surface. Although the product is relatively expensive compared to industry standard products such as the anti-roosting spike, its main application is intended to be hard to protect areas such as a domed street light housing or the roof of grain silo where conventional products may be less effective. As the Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device requires no maintenance and is simple and quick to install the product will have particular appeal to those wishing to undertake a DIY installation. The product would also be ideal for mounting in areas where access is difficult or expensive.
The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is virtually invisible when viewed from a distance mainly due to the extremely thin stainless steel ‘arms’ and the white plastic base and head. When mounted against the skyline the unit is almost impossible to see. The plastic base and head are made from a material called delrin, a frictionless material that allows the base and head to rotate freely. The only disadvantage of delrin is that the material is resistant to glue so an acrylic mounting plate is supplied with each Daddi Long Legs so that it can be screwed to the base of the unit. The acrylic plate is then adhered to the surface to be protected with a strong adhesive. Alternatively the base of the hub can be screwed directly to the surface to be protected with stainless steel screws.
In areas where high maintenance regimes are necessary or where constant human access is required, the Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is ideal due to the fact that the ‘head’ can be de-mounted from the base unit whilst maintenance takes place. Once maintenance is completed the head is simply re-attached to the base unit. The only other ‘reversible’ product on the market is the anti-roosting spike which can also be removed and replaced with ease when access is required.
The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is highly recommended for specialist installations such as pleasure craft in marinas where problems with gulls and pigeons are common and where conventional products are often inappropriate. Several ingenious adaptors are available to fix Daddi Long Legs to commonly-used perching places on boats. A railing mount is available to attach the unit to safety railings around the boat with a quick-release screw so that the unit can be de-mounted quickly and easily. A ‘boat mount’ is also available that allows the unit to be attached to almost any area of a boat with bungee cords or rope – examples of where the adaptor might be used to great effect is on a coiled sail or horizontal mast. Finally, for all areas where the ‘boat mount’ and the railing clamp cannot be used, a ‘sandbag base’ is available. The sandbag base is simply a weighted bag of sand to which the unit can be easily attached.
Another example of where the Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device can be used to protect an area often used by birds but difficult to protect is a flat roof. The roofs of single storey extensions are commonly used by garden birds and pigeons as a vantage point to exploit food provided on bird tables. Flat roofs are also used extensively by seagulls for the purpose of nesting. Most roofs, particularly felt roofs, are difficult to access and damage can be caused by constant human access to clean-up bird excrement. Daddi Long Legs can be adapted for installation on flat roofs and once installed, requires no maintenance. Daddi Long Legs can be installed on a flat roof by placing paving slabs on the roof at required intervals and then attaching the unit to the slab. The unit can be attached to the slab by drilling 3 holes into the slab, inserting a raw plug into each hole and then fixing with the stainless steel screws supplied. The base unit is ready drilled with three holes for the purpose. The units can then be moved as required, whilst still attached to the slabs, to ensure that the required protection and coverage is achieved. Alternatively the head can be detached from the base unit and then re-installed.
DEFRA’s view:
The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is not discussed on the DEFRA website.
Price range:
Daddi Long Legs is currently available in the UK and one leading pest control supplier offers the unit and optional extras for the following prices:
- Daddi Long Legs 1.25 metre diameter: £36.51 + VAT
- Daddi Long Legs 1.80 metre diameter: £41.46 + VAT
- Daddi Long Legs 2.5 metre diameter: £46.41 + VAT
- Optional sandbag boat base: £33.66 + VAT
- Optional railing clamp adaptor: £18.66 + VAT
- Optional strap on boat base: £4.34 + VAT
User reviews:
To date we have been unable to find any user reviews for Daddi Long Legs but we will update this section as and when user reviews are made available to us. If you are able to provide a user review for Daddi Long Legs please contact the Pigeon Control Resource Centre.
Comments from the Manufacturer/Distributor:
At present we have been unable to obtain the manufacturer’s comments.
Editorial comments:
Daddi Long Legs is a unique and versatile anti-roosting product that has its main application in difficult to protect and difficult to access areas. Its main advantage is that it is simple and easy to install and most installations can be undertaken without the need to instruct a specialist contractor. The product is as appropriate for residential and ‘home’ installations as it is for large-scale commercial applications, although the cost of the unit is always going to be an issue where the protection of large areas is concerned. Daddi Long Legs is also ideal for specialist applications such as boats or ships and can be fitted to virtually any surface.
Daddi Long Legs is a low visibility product and therefore has considerable appeal for those needing to protect an area where aesthetics are an issue. Any bird deterrent or anti-perching device that blends in with the architecture of the building or site concerned is highly sought after but many of the products that fall into this category, such as nylon bird netting, are often prohibitively expensive and can degrade very rapidly. The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is ideal for installations against the skyline, such as the roof of a grain silo, where the product is virtually invisible from the ground. The product is also ideal for difficult to protect architectural features due to its low visibility and versatility where installation is concerned. The optional installation products such as the sandbag, railing clamp and boat clamp will allow the product to be installed on to most surfaces with relative ease. Ease of installation also means that the product can be removed quickly and easily should access to the area or surface be required. The only other anti-perching product on the market that offers this degree of versatility is the anti-roosting spike.
Daddi Long Legs is ideal for specialist applications such as the protection of boats in marinas or boatyards. Historically gulls and pigeons have been a constant nuisance for boat owners and those managing marinas and boatyards with the only control options being the use of sonic or noise-related devices. These devices may, in part, be effective against gulls outside the breeding season (distress call-related devices are ineffective during the breeding season) but are completely ineffective against pigeons. Daddi Long Legs, however, is an excellent choice for the protection virtually any area of a boat with the added benefit that the product can be quickly and easily removed when not required and then reinstalled when the boat returns to the marina. The fact that the product is white (as are most boats) and is more or less invisible against the skyline further lends itself to this application.
One of the most difficult areas of any building to protect is a flat roof. Nylon netting is commonly recommended and used for this application by contractors.Nylon netting is expensive, invasive to install, has the potential to trap birds and often degrades quickly requiring regular maintenance. The Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device is quick and easy to install on flat roofs and has the added advantage that once installed the product requires no maintenance. Should access to the roof be required for any reason the ‘head’ can be removed and replaced easily as can the whole unit if necessary, assuming that it has been attached to a paving slab as is recommended for this application.
Daddi Long Legs may be expensive relative to low visibility anti-perching products that achieve the same goal, but the product certainly has validity as a stand-alone device for use in hard to protect areas. If Daddi Long Legs is compared directly with a product such as nylon netting, however, there is no doubt that once installation and maintenance cost associated with the installation of netting are taken into consideration, Daddi Long Legs would be the more cost effective option. If used in conjunction with anti-roosting spikesthe combination of the two products will often be all that is required to comprehensively proof a building, particularly where aesthetics are an issue or where invasive bird exclusion products are forbidden, such as on many grade listed buildings. The benefits and flexibility of the Daddi Long Legs anti-bird device appear to outweigh any disadvantages associated with the initial cost of purchasing the unit.
Also commonly known as:
Bird spider, spider deterrent, whirlybird
Relevance to pigeon control:
‘Daddi Long Legs’ is a pigeon-specific anti-perching product
About Pigeon Patrol:
Pigeon Patrol Products & Services is the leading manufacturer and distributor of bird deterrent (control) products in Canada. Pigeon Patrol products have solved pest bird problems in industrial, commercial, and residential settings since 2000, by using safe and humane bird deterrents with only bird and animal friendly solutions. At Pigeon Patrol, we manufacture and offer a variety of bird deterrents, ranging from Ultra-flex Bird Spikes with UV protection, Bird Netting, 4-S Gel and the best Ultrasonic and audible sound devices on the market today.
Voted Best Canadian wholesaler for Bird Deterrent products four years in a row.
Contact Info: 1- 877– 4– NO-BIRD (www.pigeonpatrol.ca)
by Pigeon Patrol | Aug 3, 2015 | Bird Deterrent Products, Bird Netting, Pigeon Patrol's Services, Pigeon Spikes
Defender 4™ Steel Anti-
Roosting Steel Spike
OVERVIEW
This product review will focus on the Defender™ range of Anti-Roosting Pigeon Spikes Standard Applications including: Defender™ Flat Surface Spikes, Defender Pipe Spikes™, Defender Gutter Spikes™ and Defender Fixing Silicone™.
Anti-roosting pigeon spikes are considered to be the most efficient and the most cost-effective pigeon exclusion device available within the pest control marketplace. Most independent experts believe that pigeon spikes are the only anti-roosting product (or exclusion device) that can be considered to be 100% effective, providing that they are installed as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Pigeon spikes are renowned for their versatility in terms of application, longevity and the ease of installation, making them the best-selling anti-roosting product available. Probably their greatest benefit to the property owner is the fact that the product is not only extremely quick and easy to install but they can be installed by virtually anyone, negating the need to instruct a specialist contractor and thereby further reducing the cost and complexity of the installation.
Defender Plastic Anti-
Roosting Spikes
Pigeon spikes are used throughout every town or city centre worldwide and can be seen installed on a huge variety of surfaces as a means of deterring almost every species of wild bird, although they are most commonly installed on buildings for the purpose of pigeon control. Pigeon spikes are almost invisible once installed and therefore can be used to protect buildings where aesthetics are the greatest consideration, providing the property owner with a neat, effective and low-visibility control. Other examples of where the pigeon spike can be used to great effect are lamp posts, flat surfaces of any description, gutters, louvers, roofs, pipes, statues, cabling, awnings, aerials, chimneys, eaves, architectural features of virtually any description, glass canopies, I-beams, air conditioning housings, railings, flat roofs, boats, shop signs and even trees – the range of applications for the product is endless.
Defender 4™ Steel
Anti-Roosting Spikes
Pigeon spikes can be installed onto almost every surface irrespective of the fabric concerned and examples include glass, metal, wood, plastic, masonry, brick, steel and even canvas. Fixing options also offer a great deal of versatility and although silicone gel is the most commonly used product to adhere pigeon spikes to the surface to be protected, other methods of fixing include nails, screws, cable ties, Velcro (for internal applications) and mounting onto plywood for a removable/reversible option. Although pigeon spikes are most commonly provided in a conventional vertical application, the product can also be installed horizontally and even upside down in areas where protection is required (but where there is no flat surface below the area to be protected upon which to adhere a spike).
Defender 4™ Steel
Anti-Roosting Spikes
Another benefit of pigeon spikes is that they are completely humane and non-lethal, unlike many of its counterparts. Internationally renowned bird protection agencies, such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the Pigeon Control Advisory Service (PiCAS International), recommend pigeon spikes, confirming their place as the most effective and the most humane anti-roosting product available. Although pigeon spikes may appear to be able to inflict harm on any bird that comes into contact with them, the chance of a bird injuring itself is virtually zero. This is because most birds that occupy urban areas, where the pigeon spike is most commonly used, are intelligent and well versed in avoiding dangers such as roads, overhead cables, etc., and will not attempt to land on an area protected with pigeon spikes. The feral pigeon is the most common target species in respect of most pigeon spike installations and is considered to be the most intelligent of all urban-dwelling bird species that commonly uses buildings for the purpose of breeding, roosting and daytime perching. It is virtually unheard of for a pigeon to harm itself on anti-roosting spikes and therefore the product can be used with a clear conscience by property owners experiencing pigeon-related problems. Products such as nylon bird netting, another commonly used defence against pigeons, has a poor track record in this respect, with vast numbers of pigeons dying each year having become trappedbehind or within netting installations.
Defender Gull™ Spikes
It is important to make the distinction between anti-roosting products and bird exclusion products. The pigeon spike is a pure anti-roosting/perching product that is used almost exclusively to stop virtually any species of wild bird from landing on flat surfaces, although the product can also be used to block holes and can be installed vertically, horizontally and upside down in this application. Bird exclusion products such as nylon bird netting are normally installed to protect an area rather than a specific surface. The major difference between the two types of product, in real terms, is that the pigeon spike is relatively inexpensive to purchase, can be installed by the property owner and is completely reversible and non-invasive (in relation to the fabric of the building) to install; nylon bird netting, on the other hand, can be an expensive product to have installed and in a majority of cases it must be installed by a specialist contractor. Nylon bird netting is also highly invasive to install (in respect of the fabric of the building – it must be drilled and bolted in place) and, unlike pigeon spikes, is not reversible. In 99% of applications where nylon bird netting is recommended as a means of controlling pigeons, anti-roosting spikes can be used to much greater effect and at a significantly lower cost to the property owner.
Defender Ridge Spikes™
Where the protection of grade listed buildings are concerned, pigeon spikes are the obvious choice due to the reversibility of the product and the non-invasive nature of the fixing products (silicone gel) used. Most listed buildings officers and those responsible for protecting heritage buildings will demonstrate a preference for pigeon spikes for this reason alone. To compromise an ancient building or monument by drilling and fitting Rawl bolts in order to provide a suspension system for nylon netting is senseless when pigeon spikes are completely non-invasive to install and have a significantly longer lifespan than nylon bird netting.
Another industry standard anti-roosting product that is used to protect flat surfaces is the post and wire system, or spring-wire system. This system involves the installation of vertical steel posts into (or onto) the fabric to be protected, through which thin stainless steel wires are suspended at between 8mm and 10mm above the surface to be protected. The principle of this system is that when a bird attempts to land on the surface its feet will first touch the steel wire, making the bird feel unsafe and resulting in the bird aborting its landing. Although this system is low profile and virtually invisible from the ground, as are pigeon spikes, the system is prone to failure and, like nylon bird netting, the vertical steel posts must be drilled into the surface to be protected compromising the fabric of the building. Not only this, but the system is considerably more expensive than pigeon spikes and must be installed by a specialist contractor, whereas pigeon spikes can be installed as a DIY option by the property owner concerned.
Defender Flat Surfaces Spikes
Defender 4™ Steel Anti-
Roosting Spikes
For the purposes of this review we have chosen to concentrate on the Defender™ range of pigeon spikes for several reasons. The brand is manufactured and distributed in the UK by a company called Jones and Son, who are internationally renowned for producing extremely high quality products at a reasonable price. The Defender™ range also offers what must be the most extensive range of spike-related products available on the market and probably more importantly, the Defender™ range carries a 10 or 12-year product warranty (dependent on product type) and is the only company worldwide that the Pigeon Control Resource Centre could identify (following extensive research) that offers more than a basic 1-year warranty. There are numerous companies worldwide that manufacture pigeon spikes and even more companies that distribute and wholesale the product, but in the main these companies market their products directly (and often solely) to the pest control industry rather than direct to the general public. 
Defender 8™ Plastic Anti-
Roosting Spikes
It is also worth pointing out that the UK is now starting to experience a glut of anti-roosting spike products from the Far East (in particular from China) and there are real concerns over the quality and longevity of these products. It is not uncommon to see what appear to be stainless steel pigeon spikes, manufactured in China, on offer for extremely reasonable prices on the Internet. Although some of these products may use stainless steel, it has been found that many are simply ‘mirror polished’ galvanised pigeon spikes which will rust and degrade extremely rapidly. In most cases, manufacturers of these products do not reveal what the products are constructed from and rely on the product to sell based on the fact that it looks like stainless steel and is offered well below standard market prices. Our advice is to always buy a warranted pigeon spike from a reputable source.
Defender 4™ Steel
Anti-Roosting Spikes
The most commonly used pigeon spike is known as the 4-point spike, which provides 4 pins protruding from a UV-stabilised transparent polycarbonate base and normally protects an area of up to 200mm. There are then two further options: a spike wholly moulded in polycarbonate and a spike using a polycarbonate base with stainless steel pins. Both products are hard-wearing and equally effective but the stainless steel pigeon spike normally costs a little more than the moulded polycarbonate spike. There are several other sizes and types of pigeon spike, the most common being the 2-point spike, protecting an area of approximately 100mm, the 6-point spike, protecting an area of approximately 300mm, the pipe spike and the gutter spike. This rather dated and over-complicated method of identifying the correct spike to suit the needs of the surface to be protected has been superseded by Pigeon Control Resource Centre with the new
Defender 4™ Steel
Anti-Roosting Spikes
Defender™ range. The Defender™ range has a simplified system of identifying its range of spike products in an effort to assist the layman to choose the correct pigeon spike to suit their needs. Instead of naming the range on the basis of how many pins each spike provides, the Defender™ range names its products with respect to the area each strip of spikes will protect. For example, the Defender 4™ will protect an area of up to 4” (100mm) wide, the Defender 8™ will protect an area of up to 8” (200mm) wide and so on, making the process of choosing the correct spike for the area or surface concerned extremely simple and straightforward. This system applies to both the Defender™ moulded polycarbonate (plastic) spike and the Defender™ stainless steel spike.
There is always debate about whether the plastic spike is in any way inferior to the industry standard stainless steel spike. Many suppliers that offer only the steel spike will denigrate the plastic spike, but normally fail to justify this criticism. The Defender™ plastic spikes (Defender 4™ Plastic and Defender 8™ Plastic) are offered with a 10-year guarantee and are considered to be every bit as robust and long-lasting as their stainless steel counterparts (Defender 4™ Steel, Defender 8™ Steel and Defender 12™ Steel). The essential difference between the two types of spike is that the ‘pins’ of the plastic spike are marginally thicker than those on the steel spike (because they are moulded) and therefore may be considered to be slightly more noticeable. The difference is extremely slight, as is the cost of the two options relative to each other – the Defender 8™ Steel is only 40 pence per strip more expensive that the Defender 8™ Plastic. According to Pigeon Control Resource Centre, manufacturer of the Defender™ range, the Defender 8™ Plastic and the Defender 8™ Steel are the most popular products in the range, based on the fact that the average surface upon which pigeon spikes are installed can be protected with a single run of this sized spike.
Defender™ TV Aerial Spikes
The Defender™ range of pigeon spikes are sold in ‘strips’ measuring 334mm, and although some suppliers still sell their pigeon spikes by the metre, in a majority of cases they will still be provided in strips. The benefit of buying pigeon spikes by the strip rather than by the metre is that for extremely small applications the purchaser need not buy more than is actually required. The Defender™ range of pigeon spikes are provided with a UV-stabilised transparent polycarbonate base which is produced in a zigzag format with regular star-shaped holes (the Defender™ range has 10-holes per strip) through which the strip can be either nailed or screwed to the surface to be protected or through which the silicone gel is forced when fixed in place (the silicone, when dried, forms ‘rivets’ which lock the base in place).
The Defender™ range includes a number of standard pigeon spikes and a further range of pigeon spikes designed for specialist applications, which with be dealt with in a separate product review entitled ‘Anti-roosting spikes – specialist applications’. The standard range includes the following:
- Defender 4™ plastic spike, which will protect an area of up 4″ (100mm) wide.
- Defender 4™ steel spike, which will protect an area of up to 4″ (100mm) wide.
- Defender 8™ plastic spike, which will protect an area of up to 8″ (200mm) wide.
- Defender 8™ steel spike, which will protect an area of up to 8″ (200mm) wide.
- Defender 12™ steel spike, which will protect an area of up to 12″ (300mm) wide.
- Defender Pipe Spike™, which will protect any pipe diameter from 1″(25mm) to 6″ (152mm).
- Defender Gutter Spike™, which will protect 13″ (333mm) of gutter per strip.
Technical specifications for the Defender™ range of spikes are as follows:
- Spike base is constructed from ultraviolet light-stabilised polycarbonate (durable polycarbonate resin, product code HFV-1700).
- Strip length is approximately 337mm.
- Temperature resistance: no loss of mechanical strength at a temperature of 130°C.
- The protruding pins are manufactured from 304-grade stainless steel and have a tensile strength of 1600N/mm.
- The length of each pin is 122mm and has a diameter of approximately 1.42mm.
- Spike height (pigeons), measured from base to tip of highest pin: steel spikes 115mm; moulded polycarbonate spikes 112mm.
A major benefit of the Defender™ range of pigeon spikes is that with each order of the product (irrespective of how small) the purchaser receives a comprehensive and easy to understand CD, which provides a step-by-step guide for installation by the layman. When installing pigeon spikes for the first time this CD is invaluable. Many pigeon spike systems fail simply due to poor installation where not enough care has been taken to clean the surface to be protected or where the product has been installed in wet conditions or in temperature ranges outside those recommended by the manufacturer. Installing pigeon spikes is extremely straightforward and the product will continue to be effective for up to 30 years in a majority of cases, but a little time taken to prepare surfaces and read the manufacturer’s instructions (or watch the CD, in the case of Defender™ spikes!) will dramatically enhance longevity.
Defender Starling and
Sparrow Spikes™
Before taking any action to install pigeon spikes a thorough examination of the problem and the area to be protected is vital to ensure comprehensive protection. It may be helpful to read the DIY Controls page for more detailed information on surveying both the problem and the areas that may need to be protected in order to provide a comprehensive anti-perching system. For the purposes of this review we will concentrate on the installation of pigeon spikes to deter feral pigeons, but be aware that pigeon spikes can be installed to deter virtually any species of bird, providing the appropriate product is chosen. For example, there is little point in installing pigeon spikes to deter starlings or sparrows, as this size of bird will easily manoeuvre around or through this size and gauge of spike. For smaller birds the Defender Starling and Sparrow Spikes™ will be required and the advantage of these finer spikes is that they will provide effective control of all sizes and species of bird that commonly cause problems on UK properties, with the possible exception of the gull.Defender Starling and Sparrow Spikes™ are reviewed in the ‘Anti-roosting spikes – specialist applications’ product review.
Defender 8™ Plastic
Anti-Roosting Spikes
Firstly the property must then be assessed to identify all areas that have the potential for birds to perch or roost upon. It is important thatall areas are protected rather than just the areas where the problem currently exists, because once pigeon spikes have been installed in these areas it is almost certain that the pigeons will simply move to other, possibly more sensitive areas of the building to roost or perch. It is also highly likely that once the property has been comprehensively protected with pigeon spikes the birds will move to buildings adjacent, so it may be worth discussing this with neighbours and consider placing one large order of pigeon spikes which can be installed on each building concurrently, ensuring that the problem does not move sideways. This may also reduce the cost of the product for all parties concerned as a result of buying in quantity. In order to better understand what areas of a building may be prone to perching or roosting issues (once currently occupied surfaces have been protected) please refer to the DIY Controls page where a detailed assessment of every area where pigeons may perch is discussed. The ‘Quick guide to pigeon control and the law’ discussion document also provides a detailed view as to what can and cannot be done to each area of a property in respect of both the law and the various deterrents that may or may not be appropriate.
Prior to installing Defender™ pigeon spikes it is important to remember that the product should not be installed when it is raining or where the surface to be protected is wet or when the temperature is above 45°C or below 5°C. If installation is undertaken in these conditions the comprehensive Defender™ warranty will be compromised. The surface to be protected must bethoroughly cleaned, ensuring that all guano and other debris is completely removed. It is also important to remove lichen or any other plant growth, such as moss. For the silicone to key to the surface to be protected it must be dry and completely clean. It is unnecessary to waste money on branded cleaning agents; these are no better than hot soapy water (with a splash of disinfectant if required), but if using a liquid to clean it is important to ensure the surface is completely dry before installing the spikes.
In many cases pigeon spikes are actually installed in the wrong areas and therefore fail to resolve the problem – this is not the sole preserve of the layman, however; many professional contractors make similar errors when assessing the correct areas to install the product. If a windowsill or ledge issoiled with guano it is not always the case that pigeons are perching on this surface, particularly if the area is at first floor level or below. It is highly likely that the soiling results from perching or roosting above the surface, possibly onexternal exposed pipework, a hopper, guttering or on upper storey windowsills. These are the areas that need to be protected. If the areas where the pigeon spikes need to be installed are outside the scope of a DIY installation a window cleaner or roofing contractor will often install pigeon spikes for whatever reason on your behalf.
Defender 4™ Steel
Anti-Roosting Spikes
The surface to be protected will have already been measured during the assessment process to ensure that the requisite volume of spikes are available when work starts – this is particularly important if the installation is at height where access equipment has to be used. Access equipment such as scaffold or cherry pickers (vertical lifts) are expensive and will be charged by the week or day respectively, so ensuring that you have access to all areas that require protection (and the requisite volume of pigeon spikes) is critical. Irrespective of how well the property is assessed there will always be areas that need slightly longer runs of pigeon spikes than originally anticipated or areas that had not originally been identified. It is therefore sensible to buy 10% more product than is required, based on the fact that most suppliers will accept returns of unused, excess product. It is important to remember, however, that in a vast majority of cases this will attract a 20% re-stocking fee. This is another area where the Defender™ range differs – whether the volume of Defender™ pigeon spikes purchased has been deliberately over-ordered or whether there is a small excess once the installation is complete, the product can be returned to Pigeon Control Resource Centre without any re-stocking fee for a full and ‘no questions asked’ refund. It is also worth pointing out that Pigeon Control Resource Centre will willingly send out free samples of their Defender™ range of products prior to purchase, thereby allowing the property owner to see precisely what the product looks and feels like prior to placing an order. This is extremely helpful should there be any doubt about whether pigeon spikes are the most appropriate product to suit the building concerned and indeed in an effort to choose between the moulded polycarbonate spike or the stainless steel spike.
Defender Fixing Silicone™
Once the surface to be protected has been thoroughly cleaned and allowed to dry the Defender™ Plastic or Defender™ Steel pigeon spikes can be installed. Whether the Defender™ plastic spike or steel spike has been chosen the installation process is the same. A generous bead (about 10mm – the thickness of a finger) of Defender Fixing Silicone™ should be applied onto the underside base of the spike if the surface is smooth and a slightly thicker bead if the surface is uneven. Defender Fixing Silicone™ can be used to install pigeon spikes to brick, timber, lead, glass, stonework, concrete, plastic, steel and most other surfaces where pigeon spikes may be required. A single tube of Defender Fixing Silicone™ will adhere approximately 24 strips of Defender™ plastic or steel spikes to the surface to be protected and life expectancy is at least 20 years.
The first row of Defender™ pigeon spikes (assuming that more than one row is required) is then installed close to the leading edge of the ledge, ensuring that the first pin completely covers and protects the leading edge itself. The pigeon spike should then be pressed down firmly until the Defender Fixing Silicone™ oozes through the star-shaped holes in the base of the spike – once dry the silicone will form a hard rivet which will lock the spike in place. If there is more than a 50mm gap behind the first row of Defender™ pigeon spikes the manufacturer recommends that another row will be required and should be installed in the same way as the first row. For wide ledges, windowsills or architectural features on period properties multiple rows of Defender™ plastic or steel pigeon spikes will be required and should be installed leaving gaps of no wider than 50mm between rows – this will provide comprehensive protection.
If the surface to be protected is uneven with raised areas it is extremely important to ensure that the Defender™ plastic or steel pigeon spike is installed onto the highest point. This is because if the lower area is protected it may be possible for a pigeon to stand on the raised area, rendering the installation less effective or completely ineffective. The Defender™ plastic or steel pigeon spikes should be installed onto the raised areas prior to spiking the lower sections. As with the entire Defender™ range of pigeon spikes, the base of each 335mm strip is provided with 9 breakable sections that allow the user to fit the spike to virtually any shape or size space, resulting in little or no wastage and seamless installations. If the surface is uneven this is particularly beneficial.
It is important to understand that if pigeons have entered a hole or recess in an exterior wall , soffit or an eave it is not sufficient to simply install Defender™ pigeon spikes to resolve the problem. It is likely that pigeons have entered the cavity for the purposes of nesting and/or roosting. If pigeons have dependent young they will not be deterred by pigeon spikes and will make strenuous efforts to access their young, almost certainly dislodging the pigeon spikes in the process. Any attempts to block the hole would have the potential to trap adult and/or young dependent birds within the cavity. This would not only beillegal, due to the fact that it would cause unnecessary suffering, but it would also cause health and safety issues within the building. This is because once a trapped pigeon dies its carcass will become maggot infested within a matter of days and the smell from the decomposing carcass will be extremely unpleasant. It is therefore incumbent on any property owner to fully investigate the interior of each and every cavity prior to blocking the hole. Any adult or dependent birds must be removed prior to taking any action. A detailed explanation of how to go about surveying cavities and voids is provided on the DIY Controls page.
It should also be noted that contractors (painters, window cleaners, builders, roofing contractors, etc.) will often dislodge, break or remove pigeon spikes when working on a property. If pigeon spikes have been installed prior to works being required or undertaken it is important to instruct the contractor concerned to avoid them or, if access to spiked areas is required, that spikes should be removed and replaced before and after works have been completed. It may be wise to consider building this requirement into any contract or agreement.
We have now discussed the installation of Pigeon Control Resource Centre’s standard range of Defender™ plastic and steel pigeon spikes, but there are two further spike-based anti-roosting products within the Defender™ range that fall outside the ‘specialist application’ range of products but which require slightly different installation. These products are the Defender Pipe Spike™ and theDefender™ Gutter Spike.
Defender™ Pipe Spike
Defender™ Pipe Spike
The Defender™ Pipe Spike is a purpose-built narrow spike that is designed to protect all types of pipework in the range 25mm to 150mm from perching or roosting by pigeons. The Defender™ Pipe Spike is constructed from stainless steel 304-grade wires protruding from a Durolon UV-protected polycarbonate base and is identical to the Defender™ plastic and steel spike. The product warranty on the Defender™ Pipe Spike is 12 years and the product is available in standard strips of 335mm.
The Defender™ Pipe Spike comes with special serrated cable ties that are ready attached to the base of the product to provide the user with an extremely quick and straightforward installation. A conventional pipe spike is adhered to a pipe with silicone and then, at the user’s discretion, may be further secured by using a standard cable tie. If silicone is used as the sole means of adhering a pipe spike to a pipe it will almost certainly be dislodged by the first pigeon that tries to land on the pipe. The Defender™ Pipe Spike comes equipped with a special serrated cable tie that does not require silicone and which grips the pipe firmly enough to ensure that the spike cannot be dislodged. As with all pigeon spikes, the surface of the pipe must be cleaned thoroughly prior to installation.
Defender™ Gutter Spike
Defender™ Gutter Spike
The Defender™ Gutter Spike is used to protectguttering and hoppers of all types with an almost instant installation, courtesy of the integral attaching clip which clips the whole assembly to the outer lip of a gutter or hopper in seconds. As with the Defender™ Pipe Spike and the standard Defender™ plastic and steel spikes, the Defender™ Gutter Spike is constructed from stainless steel 304-grade wires protruding from a Durolon UV-protected polycarbonate base. The product warranty on the Defender™ Gutter Spike is 12 years and the product is available in standard strips of 333mm.
There are two industry standard methods of protecting a span of guttering and both methods are completely inadequate and prone to almost instant failure. The first is to install a single vertical spike to the leading edge of the gutter via a series of insubstantial clamps which inevitably fail and become dislodged as soon as the first bird attempts to land on the gutter. The second is a version of the post and wire system which involves clamping, once again with insubstantial clamps, a series of vertical steel posts which support a steel wire designed to be suspended approximately 8mm to 10mm above the leading edge of the gutter. As with the vertical spike, as soon as a pigeon attempts to land on the leading edge of the gutter and touches the suspended wire the vertical posts cave in and the system becomes completely ineffective. In both cases these products are not only a waste of money but they only protect the leading edge of the gutter, not the gutter itself where pigeons often nest in the summer months.
The Defender™ Gutter Spike is unique in as much as the entire spike assembly, consisting of 3 stainless steel pins, one vertical and two angled, protect the entire gutter, including the leading edge and the whole interior of the gutter from both perching and nesting. Not only this, but the assembly will also help stop other debris such as twigs from building up within the gutter and causing a blockage with subsequent water ingress problems to the property concerned. Neither clamps nor adhesive are required to install the system; the assembly clips to the leading edge of the gutter ensuring that the system is not only 100% effective but it is completely reversible so that if access is required to the roof for any reason the assembly can be de-installed and then re-installed in seconds. The Defender™ Gutter Spike is a completely unique anti-roosting system that renders all other gutter protection systems redundant.
DEFRA’s view:
The Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is the UK’s Government body that oversees the Wildlife and Countryside Act and produces legislation to which the pest control industry must adhere. The following information is taken from a document provided on the DEFRA website entitled ‘Review of international research regarding the effectiveness of auditory bird scaring techniques and potential alternatives’ by J. Bishop, H. McKay, D. Parrott and J. Allan.
“Point systems consist of strips of plastic or metal with thin, upward-pointing, stainless steel or plastic spikes in a variety of configurations, which are attached to ledges. The spikes present a physical barrier to prevent birds from landing. These systems are relatively expensive and although easy to install, they require checking occasionally in order to remove debris which may cover up the wires, reducing effectiveness. The tips of wire spikes are cut square, as sharpened tip systems, (which are used in the USA), are illegal for use in the UK (Turner 1998).”
*Editor’s comment: The above view that anti-roosting spikes are expensive is not upheld by the Pigeon Control Resource Centre. Please see the ‘Editorial comments’ section.
Price range:
The Defender™ range of products is extensive and includes both moulded polycarbonate (plastic) pigeon spikes in 3 sizes and stainless steel pigeon spikes, also in 3 sizes. The ‘standard’ range also includes Defender Pipe Spikes™ and Defender Gutter Spikes™. The Defender™ ‘specialist applications’ range has a further range of products available, which is covered in a separate review entitled ‘Anti-roosting-spikes – specialist applications’.
User reviews:
Guy Merchant, a leading international authority on pigeon control and founder of the Pigeon Control Advisory Service (PiCAS International), said the following of anti-roosting spikes:
“We (PiCAS International) have recommended anti-roosting spikes to our extensive client base for decades, based on the effectiveness of the product, the ease of installation and the fact that the product is the most humane anti-roosting product or bird exclusion product on the market. As the anti-roosting spike is so effective, in our opinion 100% effective, the use of this product negates the need for other more invasive controls, such asculling, to be used.
As independent experts specialising in humane and non-lethal control systems, our clients look to us to provide a solution that will be cost effective and at the same time will not harm or cause suffering to the target species. Although the anti-roosting spike may look aggressive and appear to have the potential to harm birds, in reality the reverse is the case. In my personal experience I have only once been made aware of a pigeon harming itself on anti-roosting spikes and yet tens of thousands of birds die each and every year having come into contact with so-called humane bird exclusion products, such as netting.
PiCAS International has always recommended Pigeon Control Resource Centre’s product range for a number of reasons, but most importantly because the company ethic is such that they will never sell any product or device that can be used to kill or harm birds and their Defender™ range of anti-roosting spikes are the best on the market – period.”
The following user comments were kindly supplied by Pigeon Control Resource Centre in respect of feedback for their Defender™ range of products:
Name: Alexandra Martin-Zakheim
“Very efficient service and delivery of an excellent product. No pidgeons and happy hosters who don’t have to put up with being fouled on from above.”
Name: Andrew Harrison
“Absolutely brilliant…simplicity itself…pigeons have instantly moved on…not a lot more to say – does exactly what it says on the tin!!”
Name: Mr L Charles
“I had pigeons on my TV Aerial and Sky dish all the time making a right mess on the floor below. Since installing the spikes on the aerial with cable ties I’ve had no more unsightly mess. I also found that the gutter clips sold by this company allow you to clip the spikes on your satellite dish. Excellent products and delivered next day as promised.”
Name: Jeremy Redman
“Fully effective and simplicity itself to install – and the pigeons have learned to roost on the roof again! There will always be a trade off between mess and the pleasure of attracting wild birds to your garden; but at least it’s easier now to get rid of it and far less unsightly.”
Name: John Habberley
“The pigeon spikes secured to the end of the roof have ensured that the patio underneath is now free of pigeon droppings – a great success story! The workmen who installed them were very pleased with the quality of the glue and have asked for your company details. Now free of pigeon droppings. Regards and thanks for a good product.”
Name: Frank Creese
“The spikes have totally deterred pigeons from fouling our bay window facia tiles and pavior. We are now free from the chore of constantly having to wash down the affected areas.”
Name: Pat Oxley
“Extremely easy to fit and unobtrusive to the eye, very satisfied. Our newly rendered walls are pigeon poop free.”
Name: James Wright
“The website is extremely easy to use and secure for ordering purposes. The site has loads of pictures and is full of great information. Quite simply a joy to use for any customer. I had a problem with Starlings nesting under the roof tiles. They were getting in where the tiles overlap the gutter. The spikes have totally resolved this problem as they were easy to fit to the gutter and thus blocked up the holes under the tiles to prevent entry. Job done…..does not get any easier :-).”
Name: Matt Searston
“Easy to buy, quick delivery, simple installation….. No more Pigeons ! No more droppings on the decking.”
Name: Kim McKenzie
“Since installing the spikes me versus the pigeons round one has been a success. The pigeons have steered and swooped well away from my balcony and I have now scrubbed my balcony and can now have my breakfast in peace and free of pigeon mess. A very happy customer and great value for money and my friends say the slim metal spikes are actually quite stylish. I cannot put into words the satisfaction at seeing them sitting on the roof opposite in the rain.
I hope this helps although some feedback for you- being a girl and not understanding that the glue to attach the spikes needed a gun to apply it it -would be very helpful to mention this when purchasing the glue as I had to make an unplanned trip to B&Q”
Name: Gavin Skinner
“Easy to use, and very effective on keeping pigeons at bay. Other than not having the mess from pigeons to clean up ( which is brilliant ) , no change!!”
Name: Sue Gardiner
Company: Hacienda Management Services
“The company is Hacienda Management Services and we are based in Fuente Alamo, Murcia, Spain. The pigeon spikes are fantastic and I run a management company based on a golf resort where before the land was agricultural and the villas have all had pigeon problems. Unused villas have piles of pigeon poo and nests with eggs or babies so these spikes are fantastic in that they stop the pigeons from roosting.”
Name: John Haslehurst
“The plastic spikes I purchassed were extremely easy to put in place, I used small screws one at each end of the strip. The Decking has remained clear of Pigeon Poo since putting them up, however the other birds have decided to perch on the actual decking and are causing a mess. That said they are smaller birds and the mess is easier to clear up. I’ve not seen a bird trying to land on the pergola since so they do work.”
Name: Iain Wilson
“For 6 years now we have suffered from Pigeons roosting on our Television Aerial which is positioned just above a newly constructed Conservatory. The problem that comes with roosting pigeons is a large amount of pigeon waste. This waste was being launched from the TV aerial onto the conservatory roof then across onto our kitchen windows. Thankfully this is now a thing of the past due to the very effective and safe pigeonoff deterrent. Using the polycarb spikes these are both safe to the pigeons and does not affect the TV reception. Only problem now is the pigeons no longer roost with us but have moved to our neighbours….maybe another order on the way.”
Name: Joshua Nartker (Project Manager)
Company: Kodiak Roofing & Waterproofing, Lincoln, CA, USA
Deterapigeon.com was easy to navigate, simple and to the point. We received the bird spikes quickly and found them easy to install, an effortless assembly!
Our client was pleased with the product and we are sure it will provide added protection to the roof system and its finish.”
Comments from the Manufacturer/Distributor:
The following manufacturer quote has been kindly provided by David Jones, who is Director of the UK’s leading manufacturer of anti-roosting spikes, Jones and Son. The Jones and Son range includes the Defender™ range of anti-roosting spikes:
“Jones and Son are leading manufacturers of humane and affordable anti-roosting bird spikes. All of our spike systems simply prevent birds from landing without any injury. Jones and Son developed and patented the Defender™ range of spikes, which can be simply installed without the need to bring in a specialist contractor. Our spikes are manufactured to the highest possible standards; we only use ultraviolet-stabilised polycarbonate bases and stainless steel wires. With such a high product specification we have no hesitation in offering 10-year or 12-year extended warranties on every component or product we produce.
Our aim is to ensure that the quality of our products is matched by the customer support that is offered to all purchasers or enquirers. We are a close and caring family business that encourages the public to contact us for advice, irrespective of the problem that they are experiencing; we usually reply within 2 hours and ask people to test us – if we fail then we’ll send them a large bar of chocolate! If customers are unsure what a bird spike will look like on their property then we’ll send them a free sample. If after the purchase they change their mind they can simply return them for a full refund. And if they’ve got a few left over we’ll also refund them for the unused quantity. Customer service and value for money is the watchword of our business.”
Editorial comments:
It is quite clear that anti-roosting spikes are the ultimate anti-perching system available for the control of feral pigeon populations; whether it be on large commercial sites for the control of large flocks or to stop a pair of pigeons nesting on a residential property, the product is equally appropriate and just as effective. The product is simple to install, available with an extraordinarily long guarantee (if purchasing the product from the Defender™ range) and can be installed as a DIY installation by the property owner. These factors alone confirm the pigeon spike as the optimum deterrent for both the property owner who is prepared to undertake a DIY installation and the pest control industry itself, installing, as it does, millions of metres of pigeon spikes on client properties every year. The sheer range of spike-based products available from the Defender™ range ensures that the pigeon spike can be used for virtually every application, be it a chimney pot or a windowsill, guttering or external pipework – the installation options are wide ranging and the product itself is enormously versatile.
The comments taken from the DEFRA website (please see ‘DEFRA’s view’) are surprisingly low key and not particularly inspiring, certainly in light of the fact that leading experts within the field of pigeon control are, as one, wholly convinced by the effectiveness of the pigeon spike and recommend them widely. DEFRA also suggests that the pigeon spike is expensive, but this is simply not the case. The pigeon spike is clearly the most cost-effective anti-roosting product available due to its longevity and its effectiveness, and when compared to the cost of other products, such as nylon bird netting or the post and wire system, the cost of a spike-based system pales into insignificance. Commercial contractors will often recommend nylon bird netting or post and wire systems in preference to pigeon spike-based systems and yet it is often the case that extensive netting or post and wire-based systems will cost literally thousands of pounds more than an equivalent spike-based system. Not only this, but both netting and post and wire systems require invasive suspension systems that are not reversible, whereas spike-based systems, using silicone as an adhesive, are wholly non-invasive and completely (and easily) reversible.
Defender Fixing Silicone™
Where the control of feral bird populations is concerned the trend is now for non-lethal and completely humane systems, unlike the recent past where the pest control industry sold cullingas its main service. Although the law states quite clearly that it is illegal to use lethal means to control birds such as pigeons to protect a property, or unless there is a demonstrable and serious threat to public health, culling was widespread and, incredibly, is still offered as a control option today. The anti-roosting spike negates the need for any form of lethal control, based on the effectiveness of the product, and this holds great appeal for a vast majority of those experiencing pigeon-related (or bird-related) problems. The Pigeon Control Advisory Service (PiCAS International), an independent not-for-profit organization, has been a long-time supporter of the pigeon spike and rarely recommends any other product, based simply on the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and the ability of the product to offer the user a humane and stand-alone control system. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), a world leader where the provision of bird habitats is concerned, also recommends the anti-roosting spike.
Each and every property owner that experiences a problem with pigeons is looking for a product that is cheap to purchase, inexpensive and quick to install, reversible and can be installed by the user. The pigeon spike ticks all these boxes and more. The Defender™ range of products is aimed at the DIY installer and offers each purchaser, irrespective of how small the order, with a CD clearly showing what steps need to be taken to undertake a permanent and sound pigeon spike installation. The Defender™ range is also easy and straightforward to buy on the Internet and Pigeon Control Resource Centre, the manufacturer and distributor, openly encourages the public to contact them for advice or information about what product to choose and what they should do if they experience a problem. Not only this, but the company will happily send out free samples of the product prior to purchase and refund the customer, with no re-stocking fee, should the customer have excess product remaining following installation. This user-friendly approach is welcome and long overdue in a marketplace that is not always renowned for its transparency and good customer relations.
Although there are a vast number of distributors and retailers selling pigeon spikes on the Internet we are starting to see cheap Asian imports coming onto the UK market and this is a worrying turn of events. Broadly speaking, UK and European-manufactured products are of a reasonably high standard, but many of the products coming in from Asia are far from this. Some products are dressed up to look like conventional and recognizable products and yet they are made from inferior materials and simply cannot be compared to ranges such as the Defender™ range. Our strong advice is to contact the Pigeon Control Resource Centre for independent advice if in doubt and always buy pigeon spikes from a reputable UK or European source. Cheap imported pigeon spikes may cost a little less but they come with no warranty (and if one is offered it is unlikely to be honoured) and they will probably need to be replaced within a year or two at best.
In respect of application, the pigeon spike cannot be beaten, based on the huge variety of surfaces upon which the product can be installed. The pigeon spike can also be used by owners of period properties or grade-listed buildings with a clear conscience due to the non-invasive nature of installation. For use on listed buildings it is always wise to discuss the installation of deterrents with a listed buildings officer prior to installing any pigeon control products, although some listed buildings officers harbour negative views of the pigeon spike for reasons most can’t explain. The fact of the matter is that there is no pigeon control product that is less invasive to install than the pigeon spike. Some other anti-roosting products may appear to be less visible (such as the electric shock system or the post and wire system) but once installed they are no less visible or less damaging to the aesthetics of the buildings concerned than the pigeon spike and they will be very considerably less effective as a stand-alone control. In most cases they will almost certainly be a great deal more expensive.
The extensive range of anti-roosting products available from the Defender™ range now offer the property owner a staggering number of innovative options for protecting their property without the need to compromise aesthetics or have to use the services of a specialist contractor for supply or installation. In the past property owners have had to rely solely on both advice and the supply of products from specialist contractors and the customer has not always been provided with the best option to suit their needs. With the advent of the Internet, however, buying products from companies like Pigeon Control Resource Centre, who are wholly customer led, not only provides the property owner with a huge range of sensibly priced products but also offers free expert advice to anyone experiencing a pigeon-related problem. Not only is every Defender™ product dispatched with a free installation CD, but for more complex problems, or for unexpected problems, the team of experts at Pigeon Control Resource Centre are available 5 days a week for telephone advice. This level of customer service was previously unheard of within the pest control industry and, at last, a leading manufacturer and supplier of bird control products has brought the industry into the 21st century.
To date, the pigeon spike is the only product that we have reviewed to receive a 5 star rating and deservedly so – the anti-roosting spike is simply the best defence against pigeons that money can buy, no exceptions.
Sources:
DEFRA quotes:
PDF on DEFRA website entitled: ‘Review of international research regarding the effectiveness of auditory bird scaring techniques and potential alternatives’ By J Bishop, H McKay, D Parrott and J Allan.
Also commonly known as:
Pigeon spikes, Defender Chimney Pot Spikes™, needle strips, Defender 8™ plastic, bird spikes, Defender Ridge Spikes™, pipe spikes, Defender 4™ steel, stainless spikes, Defender 8™ steel, plastic spikes, Defender Starling and Sparrow Spikes™, polycarbonate spikes, Defender 4™ plastic, point system,Defender Rocking Spider™, spikes, Defender 12™ steel, Defender TV Aerial Pack™, pigeon point, Defender Gutter Spikes™, birdpoint, Defender pipe spike™, bird point, Defender Gull™, roost inhibitor, Defender Opening Window Spikes™
Relevance to pigeon control:
Anti-roosting spikes are pigeon specific and have a high relevance to pigeon control
About Pigeon Patrol:
Pigeon Patrol Products & Services is the leading manufacturer and distributor of bird deterrent (control) products in Canada. Pigeon Patrol products have solved pest bird problems in industrial, commercial, and residential settings since 2000, by using safe and humane bird deterrents with only bird and animal friendly solutions. At Pigeon Patrol, we manufacture and offer a variety of bird deterrents, ranging from Ultra-flex Bird Spikes with UV protection, Bird Netting, 4-S Gel and the best Ultrasonic and audible sound devices on the market today.
Voted Best Canadian wholesaler for Bird Deterrent products four years in a row.
Contact Info: 1- 877– 4– NO-BIRD (www.pigeonpatrol.ca)
It is so wonderful to see some progress taking place in downtown North Battleford with it coming back to life with all the numerous renovations going on. Far too many business places have been closed for so long. It was sad to see compared to other provincial cities and little towns.