What is bird flash tape?
Bird flash tape, also known as bird deterrent tape, is a type of reflective tape that is used to scare away birds from gardens, landscaping, buildings, and other areas. It works by reflecting sunlight and moving in the wind, which startles and frightens birds away.
How does bird flash tape work?
Bird flash tape is made of a thin plastic material that is printed with iridescent and reflective colors on one side. The reflective surface flashes brightly when it catches sunlight or artificial light. The tape also has a holographic appearance that scatters light in different directions.
In addition, the tape is very lightweight so it moves and flutters easily in even a slight breeze. The combination of the flashing, fluttering tape is extremely disturbing and disorienting to birds. It overwhelms their senses and essentially convinces them that the area is unsafe, so they avoid it.
Why is bird flash tape effective?
Here are some of the main reasons why bird flash tape is so effective at repelling birds:
– Reflective surface – The mirrored surface reflects sunlight, confusing birds and making them uneasy.
– Fluttering motion – As the tape flaps in the wind, the movement startles birds and makes them hesitant to land on the protected area.
– Predator eyes effect – The flashing colors and holographic light resemble predator eyes, triggering birds’ innate fear response.
– Disorientation – The fluttering, flashing tape overwhelms birds’ senses, disorienting them and causing them to avoid the area.
Where can you use bird flash tape?
Bird flash tape can be installed in a variety of locations to humanely deter birds, such as:
Building ledges and signs
Pigeons, seagulls and other birds often perch and nest on ledges of buildings, signs, awnings and other structures. Bird tape can be applied to these areas to prevent birds from roosting.
Fruit trees and gardens
Wrap bird tape around branches of fruit trees, vines and shrubs to stop birds from feeding on ripening fruit. You can also run strands of tape around vegetable gardens to protect plants.
Boat docks and marinas
Deter seagulls and other marine birds from landing on docks, railings and boat decks by securing bird tape along surfaces. This helps prevent birds from pooping everywhere.
Ponds and lakes
Running tape around the edges of ponds helps deter waterfowl like ducks and geese from taking up residence. Tape can also be tied to fish tank stand pipes to keep herons away.
Outdoor eating areas
Apply tape along the tops of gazebos, pavilions, and umbrellas to prevent birds from swooping in and stealing food.
How to install bird flash tape
Installing bird flash tape is a simple process:
Step 1 – Choose an appropriate type of tape
Bird flash tape comes in a few different varieties:
– Holographic foil tape – Shimmers and flashes dramatically. High visibility.
– Iridescent ribbon tape – Flutters lightly in the breeze. Less visually busy look.
– UV reflective tape – Reflects ultraviolet light that birds can see but humans can’t.
Step 2 – Cut tape to desired length
Measure the area you want to protect and cut the flash tape to size as needed. Pieces can be as short as 3-4 inches or over 10 feet long.
Step 3 – Remove adhesive backing
Peel off the adhesive backing so the sticky side is exposed. Some types of flashing tape have adhesive on both sides.
Step 4 – Apply tape to surface
Press the tape firmly onto the clean, dry surface. Run your fingers over it to smooth out any air bubbles. Space multiple strips 2-4 inches apart.
Step 5 – Add additional pieces as needed
Overlap pieces or add extra rows of tape to expand coverage. Focus on entry points and areas birds congregate.
Here is a table summarizing the installation steps:
Step | Action |
1 | Choose appropriate type of bird tape |
2 | Cut tape to desired length |
3 | Remove adhesive backing |
4 | Apply tape to clean, dry surface |
5 | Add additional pieces as needed |
Tips for maximizing effectiveness
Follow these tips to get the best results from bird flash tape:
Use enough tape
Don’t skimp on the tape – fully cover surfaces and overlap multiple strips. Birds will still land if they can find gaps.
Move and add tape frequently
Birds can become accustomed to the tape over time. Change the tape position and replace old tape.
Combine with other deterrents
Use other deterrents like decoys, spinners and sound devices along with bird tape. Varying tactics works best.
Install early
Apply tape before birds become established in an area. It’s easier to keep them away than to scare them off after they’ve settled in.
Ensure proper light reflection
Position tape to catch sunlight and artificial light. Rotation and wind exposure also increase reflection.
Pros of using bird flash tape
Here are some of the benefits of using bird flash tape:
Humane and harmless
Bird tape provides a humane, non-toxic method of repelling birds. It does not harm or kill birds in any way.
Cost-effective solution
At around 2 to 5 cents per foot, bird tape is very affordable compared to other bird deterrent products.
Easy to install
The tape can be installed quickly and easily without any special tools or hardware. Almost anyone can do it.
Weatherproof
The best bird tapes are designed to withstand sun, wind, rain and snow. The tape won’t degrade or lose effectiveness when exposed to the elements.
Visually unobtrusive
When installed correctly, the tape blends into the surroundings and is barely noticeable to humans. It doesn’t obstruct views or access.
Cons of using bird flash tape
The disadvantages of bird flash tape include:
Effectiveness varies
Bird tape works better with some species than others. And its effectiveness can decrease over time as birds get accustomed.
Can look messy or tacky
If too much tape is used or it’s not installed neatly, it can look unsightly. The tape needs to be positioned carefully.
Not a standalone solution
Bird tape works best when combined with other deterrents. Using multiple tactics provides better results.
Tape may peel off over time
Exposure to weather, sunlight and wind can cause the tape adhesive to fail, requiring replacement. Proper surface prep helps.
Can blow into other areas
If not firmly attached, sections of tape can come loose and blow away as litter. Pieces should be anchored down.
Conclusion
Bird flash tape provides an affordable, humane way to discourage birds from invading areas where they are not wanted. The reflective, fluttering tape disorients birds and triggers their instinct to avoid unfamiliar disturbances in their environment. While bird tape may not work equally well for all species and locations, it remains an easy-to-use, non-toxic deterrent that can be part of an integrated pest management plan. With some experimentation to find the right application and positioning, bird flash tape can effectively repel birds in gardens, buildings, docks and other sites.