Bird netting is an effective and humane way to keep birds away from areas where they are unwanted. Whether you are trying to protect your garden, stop birds from nesting in unwanted places, or keep them safe from hazards, bird netting can help. But with so many types and options for bird netting on the market, how do you know which is the best choice? This comprehensive guide will walk through the key factors to consider when selecting bird netting and provide recommendations for some of the top-rated bird netting products. Read on to learn what you need to know to choose the ideal bird netting solution for your needs.
What is Bird Netting?
Bird netting, also sometimes called bird mesh, is a lightweight netting material that is commonly used to keep birds away from or out of specific areas. It creates a physical barrier that makes it hard for birds to land or roost. Bird netting comes in a few different forms:
Plastic or nylon bird netting – This type of bird netting is made from strong, durable plastics like HDPE, polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon. The netting features a mesh pattern with hole sizes usually between 5-35mm. Plastic nets are inexpensive, weather resistant, and can be easily cut to size.
Stainless steel bird netting – Stainless steel nets are made from high quality woven stainless steel wire. The steel makes the nets very strong and durable. Stainless nets have small mesh holes and resist rust and corrosion.
Polyester bird netting – Polyester nets are lightweight and breathable. They are prone to UV damage but are very affordable.
Knotted bird netting – This type features knots where the horizontal and vertical wires cross for extra strength. The knotted design makes it hard for birds to get claws or beaks stuck.
No matter the exact material, bird nets create both a visual deterrent and physical barrier that makes covered areas unpleasant for birds to inhabit. The netting can be used over gardens, building ledges, ponds, boats, and many other spaces.
When Should You Use Bird Netting?
There are several situations where bird netting is an effective and humane solution:
Protecting gardens and crops – Bird netting over vegetable gardens, berry patches, orchards, and other planting areas prevents birds from snacking on precious crops. Both vegetable growing and commercial agriculture operations use bird nets.
Deterring birds from nesting – Installing netting over eaves, railings, awnings, and other structures keeps nuisance birds like pigeons or swallows from nesting and roosting in unwanted areas around homes and buildings.
Discouraging birds from ponds – Draping bird netting over pond surfaces prevents birds from consuming fish and treats the pond like their dining hall. Netting also keeps waterfowl like geese away.
Keeping birds out of boats and marinas – Marinas and boat owners often use bird netting to cover ships, boats, and docks to prevent seagulls and other coastal birds from leaving droppings and creating nests on watercraft.
Protecting birds from enclosures – At zoos and aviaries, light netting is used over the tops of enclosures to keep contained birds from escaping.
Wherever birds are problematic, properly installed nets create an impenetrable barrier that deters them from landing while allowing sunlight, air, and rain to pass through.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Bird Netting
To select the best bird netting product for your specific needs, here are key variables you’ll want to take into account:
Hole size – This determines what size birds the net will deter. For songbirds, hole sizes of 14mm or smaller are ideal. Larger birds like pigeons and seagulls require 28mm or smaller holes. Hole shape also matters, with hexagonal or knotted holes doing better at entangling birds.
Net density – Denser netting with more fibers per square inch provides maximum strength and bird exclusion but reduces airflow. Looser nets are weaker and have larger holes but improved breathability. Find the right balance for your climate.
Material – Match net material to the environment. Long-lasting stainless steel is best for harsh outdoor settings. Nylon stands up to sun and saltwater around boats. Polyester works well for temporary indoor applications.
UV treatment – For plastic nets, UV treatment protects against sun damage and greatly extends usable life. Untreated nets become brittle after one season. Treated nets last many years.
Weight – Heavier nets like stainless steel are sturdier in wind and storms. Lightweight polyester nets require additional structural support. Assess wind conditions and necessary strength.
Net size – Purchase enough netting to generously cover the desired area without sagging or gaps where birds can enter. Measure accurately and buy 10-20% extra to be safe.
Attachment method – The bird net has to be held tightly in place. Options like grommets for tying, pole pockets, or weighted hems help keep nets secured.
Evaluating these factors will lead you to the ideal netting to effectively and humanely deter birds from problematic areas.
Top Bird Netting Products Reviewed
Based on extensive research into the features, benefits, effectiveness, and overall value of the many bird netting products on the market, here are four top-rated bird netting options to consider for your specific needs:
Bird Netting Pick | Details | Ideal Uses |
Garden Lovers Netting |
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Slam Dunk Netting |
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Sea Eagle Netting |
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Balloon Tail Netting |
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These bird netting options represent the highest quality materials, targeted designs, and smart construction features to humanely and effectively deter birds across various situations.
How to Install Bird Netting
Once you’ve selected the right netting, proper installation is key to maximize effectiveness. Here are some tips for securely installing bird netting:
- Measure area and cut net to size, adding at least 12” excess to perimeter
- Secure starting edge to surface with staples, screws, tape, or weighted hem
- Stretch net taut across area to remove slack
- Use zip ties, cable ties, carabiners or net clips to attach net to poles, frames or anchors around perimeter, spacing attachments every 12” or less
- For maximum tension, crisscross tie net between supports
- Seal edges, seams and openings with tape or silicone to prevent gaps
- Inspect and repair any rips, holes or loosening immediately
- Reapply UV treatment if netting degrades from sun exposure
Proper set up keeps the netting securely in place and eliminates any openings for birds to sneak under or around the barrier. Check netting frequently for damage and re-secure as needed.
Conclusion
Installing high quality bird netting is a simple, lasting, and humane technique for protecting gardens, buildings, boats, and more from nuisance birds. By understanding different netting options and properly utilizing the best netting for your specific situation, you can successfully and humanely create an impenetrable barrier against problem bird behaviors and damage. Invest in and deploy the right bird netting for your needs and you can outsmart the birds long-term.