Alex kecskes
For years, the U.S. military recruiting station in New York's Times Square-often referred to as “The Booth"-has been invaded by growing flocks of pigeons. The birds left behind pounds of smelly disease carrying droppings and created a noisy nuisance. Lately, however, the U.S. Army has gone on the offensive to get rid of pigeons, making sure its office is the “Best it Can Be."
The initial plan of attack was to broadcast intimidating predator sounds, specifically the sounds of pigeons under attack. Speakers were strategically placed and the volume turned up. But the pigeons held fast, refusing to budge, actually ignoring the threat. Bird experts reasoned that because the birds are so accustomed to the high-decibel Times Square soundscape, the pesky pigeons simply couldn't hear the “predators."
Another problem was that the pigeons really couldn't resist the free meals constantly provided by passers-by. In terms of an ideal habitat, the pigeons had it made-free rent, free food and free heat from the subway grates.
The Army will also be using chemicals to repel the pigeons. If that fails, they'll try placing spikes on the recruiting station roof to keep the pigeons from landing. Smart move by the Army, especially if they opt for plastic bird spikes. For these have a number of advantages.
Humanely Denying Pigeons the Ability to Land
Plastic Bird Spikes are an ideal way to get rid of pigeons. They work because they deny birds the ability to land. With wings and feet splayed, negotiating a landing is virtually impossible, so they simply move on.
The spikes can be used virtually anywhere and require little or no maintenance. The blunted spikes are safe for birds and maintenance crews, so it's not hard to see why they have earned the approval of humane groups around the world-including the U.S. Humane Society and PICAS (Pigeon Control Advisory Service). They are also GSA approved. When you factor in their excellent deterrent capabilities, it's not hard to see why plastic bird spikes have been widely embraced by building contractors, architects, and municipalities.
Plastic Spikes for Big Birds Like Pigeons
If you've been invaded by pigeons, plastic bird spikes should be numero uno in your arsenal of bird deterrents. Put them on ledges, parapets, rooftops and other structures and watch as pigeons move on, seldom to return. Without spikes, pigeons will gather and feed in huge flocks, devouring seeds, bread, vegetables, meat and almost any food discarded by humans. The filthy birds will roost on rooftops, in walls, or any nook or cranny on your property or building. And everywhere they gather, you can expect a huge mess in droppings, which often carry any of 60 known diseases. A few of these diseases can even be life-threatening to humans.
Plastic Spikes for Non-Conductive Applications
Plastic Bird Spikes have a number of nifty advantages. For one thing, unlike steel bird spikes, they are non-conductive, which means you can safely use them next to electrical equipment. And because they won't interfere with EM transmissions, they can be placed next to or near cell phone towers, airport towers, relay stations and other areas where high-frequency transmissions are being propagated.
Plastic bird spikes are also highly durable. They can stand up to extreme weather conditions. The best plastic spikes use100% post-industrial plastic materials. The material is tough, strong, and eco-friendly. Better plastic spikes are also U.V. protected to endure extended periods in sunlight. One popular brand of plastic spike can stand temperature swings form +310 degrees F to -200 degrees. F. Now that's a tough spike.
A growing number of architects and builders prefer plastic bird spikes because they blend into a building's design and color scheme. They're simply not as visually noticeable as other bird deterrents. One company even sells plastic bird spikes in a wide range of colors-including white, tan, gray, black, brown, brick red and even crystal clear.
Plastic Spikes for Easy Installation
Plastic bird spikes are very easy to install. They come in 3-, 5- and 7-inch widths and they require no assembly. When installing these spikes, a single row of spikes will cover a 7-inch wide area. The best plastic spikes will have a flexible base that readily conforms to any flat or curved surface. Each spike strip comes pre-drilled with holes along the base, so it can easily be screwed onto any surface. Glue can also be used in situations where screws are either impractical or prohibited. The best plastic spikes have a glue trough at the base of each spike strip to facilitate fast and easy installs.
When installing plastic bird spikes on conduits or curved surfaces, gutters or pipes, try to use hose clamps, nylon ties or wire lashings. When installing spikes on large flat surfaces, use multiple rows of spikes. For high-perched surfaces, be sure to install spikes on both sides of the perch. When installing plastic spikes on wood, use wood screws, make sure the ends are secured tightly, and place at least one screw every six inches. For concrete installations, use outdoor construction adhesive and run a bead line of adhesive down the underside of the spike. Silicone adhesives are not recommended.
Plastic Spikes for the Savings
Yes, plastic bird spikes cost less than their steel counterparts, but some come with a full 5-year warranty. It covers the spike against breakdown and UV degradation. Price can be a factor in large installations or for companies that have an extremely tight bird control budget.
A Final Word on Pigeons
Pigeons are basically filthy birds that often carry diseases. They can be very aggressive, going after pets and children for food. They often feed in flocks, devouring seeds, bread, vegetables, meat and almost any food discarded by humans. They roost together in buildings, on rooftops, in nooks and crannies of walls and near ponds and water fountains-which they quickly contaminate with their droppings. They can reach speeds of up to 50 mph and can out maneuver a predator hawk. Pigeons are also among the most intelligent birds on Earth.
