Anti-perching bird spikes are an excellent prevention method to stop specific pest birds from gaining access to ledges and other areas where they may be causing a nuisance.

Bird spikes are designed not to harm the bird, a blunt edge on the end for the spike tips will prevent penetration, but rather stop the birds from landing for either perching or roosting. Bird spikes are not universal, and specific spikes must be purchased for target birds. At present in the UK we only manufacture spikes for gulls or pigeons.

Bird spikes are designed to prevent perching and roosting. They have little success for nesting and are generally not recommended when other options such as netting may be a more convenient application.

Pigeon spikes are probably the most commonly used ledge protection available; they are straightforward to apply and requires no technical knowledge other than understanding their coverage.  Pigeon spikes are often used on buildings facades, fences, and parapets. If installed correctly, spikes will not allow pigeons to land.

Gull spikes have a longer tip to compensate for the bird’s additional height and should always be used when gulls are present. Gulls can be extremely territorial and can dislodge spikes within the initial adhesive stages, so installers must monitor any application for at least 48 hours after an installation.

Adhesive and the surface preparation are likely the most important part of installing bird spikes; otherwise, failure is highly likely. The adhesive is required to be flexible to allow for temperature fluctuations, and we do not recommend using an instant grab adhesive, but instead an LMN or polymer type adhesive. Surface preparation should be used on certain surfaces such as plastics and aluminium cladding.

Before undertaking any spikes works, installers must understand the current legislation around pest birds’ control and steps must be undertaken to prevent unnecessary harm. All birds are protected by law, so any installation works are recommended to be carried outside of the breeding season or necessary using a local authority permit.