Unwanted birds can cause damage to property, wildlife and crops as well as spread disease. They can present a risk to the public at large and cause noise disturbances. Whatever the birds species and whatever the problem it is they are causing there are various steps you can take to protect yourself and your property. Some of the most common and effective bird proofing options are discussed in detail below.

Proofing your place of work

If you have a shop or business premise that members of the public have access to then you must do all you can to ensure that any bird problem you may have does not pose a risk.

Bird droppings can, asides from the health risks, cause a slipping hazard which could result in a personal injury taking place. If it can be shown that you have not taken the necessary steps to minimise the risk of this happening then you could be found to be liable for any claims that are made and be ordered to pay compensation to the injured party.

One of the simplest and most cost effective solutions to combat this is the installation of bird spikes. These spikes, often made of plastic, inhibit the bird's ability to land and perch on ledges. Obviously if they are unable to stop for long periods of time the mess they are able to make is significantly reduced.

The spikes themselves are very versatile and can be secured in a wide range of locations including roof tops, TV aerials, ledges and signs. As they are blunt they pose no danger to birds, and because they can be fitted discretely they do not affect the aesthetics of the property in question.

Protecting your crops

If you have crops, vegetation or seedlings that are at risk of being damaged or destroyed by birds you have two main options for protecting them.

Firstly you can invest in an ultrasonic bird repellent unit. These are virtually undetectable to humans but use high frequency sound to scare birds away from the area you are trying to protect.

Alternatively you can install bird netting. Available in a variety of different sizes to enable you to target particular bird species, this humane and environmentally friendly option stops birds from being able to enter the area you are protecting.

Protecting your home

Spikes can be useful for protecting aerials and nets can prevent birds from nesting in areas but birds present other problems to domestic properties. Dead birds falling down chimneys can decay, start to smell and carry disease. The easiest way to prevent this from occurring is to fit a chimney cap to stop birds from having access.