Home Garden

Mesh Net to Control Birds

Mesh nets are often used to prevent birds and bats from entering specific areas. Airports use this technology to prevent birds from landing or nesting on flight lines. The nets can also be strung on the sides of the flight line to keep the birds from flying over areas where they can be sucked into aircraft engines, which may cause catastrophic damage. Gardeners and farmers use this technology to prevent their plots and fields from being eaten or soiled by excrement.
  1. Types of Netting

    • A number of different materials can be used to make bird netting. The types of material include polyethylene, polypropylene, stainless steel wire and nylon multi-filament. Polyethylene and polypropylene are UV protected materials which will not break down when used for an extended period outdoors. This type of material can also be tested for strength to protect from birds of all sizes. The nylon multi-filament is UV protected and available in extremely fine fibers, which help to reduce the visibility of the netting. Stainless steel wire is typically higher priced than the other options, but it is a strong material that will endure for an extended period of time.

    Mesh Size

    • The size of the mesh squares of the bird netting must be chosen according to the size of the bats or birds that you wish to block. Typical mesh sizes range from one-quarter inch to 2 inches. The average size for the netting is one-half inch, which protects areas from any bird the size of a pigeon or larger.

    Maintenance

    • Mesh netting with fixed junctures will not require any routine maintenance, but it should be inspected for any breaks and repaired to prevent bird entry. Netting that has woven or interlaced corners should be inspected frequently. The spacing on the nets can become strained and may need to be re-positioned.

    Mounting

    • Mesh bird nets can be installed or mounted in a variety of ways. Airports can suspend the nets from existing objects in nature such as large trees. If trees are not present, the nets can be suspended from the tops of installed poles. Gardeners and farmers can cover a specific crop area or garden plot by draping the fabric over a frame. The material should not be draped on the crop itself, as birds will be able to eat the produce due to the proximity.