When considering bird netting, it’s essential to evaluate key factors before purchasing to ensure the netting is suitable for your needs. Bird netting serves as an effective barrier to deter various types of birds and other pests. Different netting materials, mesh sizes, and types exist to accommodate various applications. This article will explore the primary types, the importance of mesh size, materials, and considerations for quality and application.
Types of Bird Netting
Applications can range from agricultural and industrial to residential purposes. The following types represent the three most common options:
- Floating Bird Netting
This type of netting is designed for use in and around ponds—such as fishponds, settling ponds, and liquid waste ponds. Floating bird netting provides an effective barrier to keep birds like ducks and herons away from valuable resources like fish stocks. This is particularly critical for fish farms, where bird predation can lead to significant losses. Ducks, herons, and other large birds may swoop down on fish farms, reducing yields and profits. For this reason, floating bird netting is essential for operators looking to protect their stock from predatory birds. - Industrial Bird Barrier Netting
Bird netting is also effective in industrial settings, including waste management facilities and oil refineries. Settling ponds, often found at these facilities, can attract birds due to the availability of water and food sources. Industrial bird barrier netting is designed to protect these sites by creating a physical barrier that prevents birds from settling or nesting, thereby minimizing health hazards and preventing contamination risks associated with bird droppings. - Bird Pen and Flight Pen Cover Netting
For businesses or facilities that house birds, such as aviaries or research facilities, bird netting can be used as a protective covering for enclosures. One-inch mesh bird netting is often used for bird pens or flight pens. This provides both protection and containment for birds within the area. This type of netting can also serve as a barrier against common urban and rural bird species, such as pigeons and starlings.
Importance of Mesh Size
Mesh size is one of the most important specifications to consider when purchasing bird netting. It determines the effectiveness of the netting for different types of birds. Mesh sizes can range from very small to larger openings, depending on the intended purpose:
- Small Mesh Sizes (1 inch or less): Suitable for smaller bird species such as sparrows, pigeons, and starlings. A smaller mesh size prevents more birds of varying sizes from penetrating the barrier. This size mesh is often used for aviary netting, urban pigeon control, and barrier netting for smaller ponds.
- Larger Mesh Sizes (2 inches or more): Larger mesh sizes are typically used in areas where the threat of small bird intrusion is lower. This size may be more suitable for agricultural applications or areas where the primary aim is to deter larger birds such as seagulls or herons.
Selecting the right mesh size is critical. A size that is too large may allow small birds to bypass the netting, while an unnecessarily small mesh size could add to costs and weight without providing additional benefits.
Material Considerations
Bird netting materials play a significant role in the durability, functionality, and effectiveness of the netting. Common materials used in bird netting include polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon, each offering unique benefits:
- Polyethylene (PE): Known for its durability and UV resistance, polyethylene is commonly used in netting designed for outdoor applications. It is resistant to rot and moisture, making it ideal for both agricultural and industrial use. Polyethylene netting is often twisted and knotted to provide additional strength. This is crucial for resisting environmental stresses such as wind and sunlight.
- Polypropylene: Polypropylene is another durable material that resists UV damage and weathering. It’s typically lighter than polyethylene and is suitable for areas with lower exposure to harsh weather. However, it may not offer the same level of durability as polyethylene in extreme conditions.
- Nylon: Nylon netting is known for its strength and flexibility. It’s often used for temporary installations or indoor enclosures where durability is less critical. While nylon netting is strong, it may be more prone to degradation from prolonged exposure to UV rays, which is something to consider for outdoor use.
Quality and Durability
For long-lasting effectiveness, look for bird netting with UV protection and resistance to environmental wear and tear. UV-protected netting will withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without significant degradation, ensuring a longer lifespan. Bird netting should also be rot-resistant, particularly if it will be used around ponds or other moist environments.
Many companies offer netting in various twine thicknesses and mesh sizes. For example, a high-quality netting specification might include:
- Twine Thicknesses: Options may include twine thicknesses such as PE 600D x 6 ply or PE 600D x 12 ply, providing increased durability depending on the level of protection required. The higher the ply count, the thicker and more robust the netting. This makes it more resistant to environmental stresses.
- Mesh Sizes: Mesh sizes might range from 1 inch for smaller birds to 2 inches for larger birds or lower-risk applications. Quality netting can often be joined to create larger sections and may be available with custom rope or wire borders for added durability and stability.
High-quality bird netting is typically designed to withstand outdoor conditions, including exposure to UV rays, wind, and moisture. Choose a reputable company that guarantees the netting’s specifications, including mesh size, twine thickness, and protective features.
Applications and Key Considerations
Before purchasing bird netting, it’s essential to consider the specific application and measure the area to ensure the netting will fit. Assess the type of birds that pose the highest risk for your situation, as different birds may require different mesh sizes and netting thicknesses. For instance:
- Agricultural Use: Farms may require netting to cover fruit crops or vineyards, deterring birds like starlings or crows. In these settings, a smaller mesh size and thicker twine can offer effective protection without compromising sunlight exposure.
- Industrial Settings: Waste management facilities, water treatment plants, and refineries often require large-scale netting to cover ponds or reservoirs. A larger mesh size and heavy-duty material can provide a practical solution without obstructing air circulation.
- Residential and Urban Use: For home or urban bird control, bird netting can be used around rooftops or balconies to prevent nesting by pigeons and other common pests. Small mesh sizes are usually effective for urban settings where smaller birds are more prevalent.
Final Thoughts
Bird netting is an essential tool for many industries, protecting valuable resources and minimizing the risks associated with bird interference. When selecting bird netting, it is crucial to consider the specific type of birds you need to deter, the required mesh size, and the material quality. Durable materials such as polyethylene with UV protection and rot resistance are ideal for outdoor applications, while different twine thicknesses and mesh sizes can be customized to meet various needs. Whatever the application, choosing the right bird netting will ensure effective and long-lasting protection.