When discussing wildlife hazard management, the abundance of tools and gadgets available can be overwhelming and potentially confusing, particularly when considering limitations such as expertise and budgets. However, amidst these challenges, the bread and butter essentials of bird control, bird spikes, are often overlooked.
The goal is straightforward: discourage birds from gathering at your aerodrome. How you may ask? Wildlife hazard management often involves complex and broad strategies with endless options like habitat management, active dispersal techniques, and gadgets. Bird spikes are an immediate management solution that can be easily implemented. These spikes have demonstrated their effectiveness as a barrier measure in controlling urban bird populations. By strategically placing bird spikes on ledges and eliminating frequent bird perching spots, it becomes easier to deter birds from congregating at your aerodrome.
Bird spikes are physical barriers consisting of rows of protruding spikes that are strategically installed in areas vulnerable to bird activity. Through a thorough comprehension of the best installation sites and the selection of appropriate bird spike types, airports can substantially mitigate the risk of bird-related incidents, thereby fostering safer skies for all.
Airports are big. Where do I put bird spikes in my aerodrome?
Situating bird spikes on every single ledge and surface throughout the airport is both impractical and unachievable. By adopting a more focused strategy and strategically placing bird spikes in identified high-risk areas, airport managers can efficiently reduce viable perching points for birds. Conducting comprehensive bird surveys is crucial for identifying high-risk areas and potential bird-related hazards. These high-risk areas may include signage or any structures near or on runways and taxiways. With bird strikes posing a significant risk during critical phases of aircraft operation such as take-off, landing, and taxiing manoeuvres, these areas become particularly vulnerable.
Raptors frequently utilise elevated structures like lamp posts or antennas as a vantage point to scan for prey. However, careful observation and evaluation of raptor behaviour may see them perching on lower signage areas closer to the ground, warranting the placement of bird spikes at those areas as well.
Various bird species inhabit airports, and while bird spikes prove effective against certain species, they may not deter all. What type of birds work spikes are best in my aerodrome?
Bird spikes are most effective against medium-sized birds such as crows, mynas, gulls, pigeons, and medium-sized birds of prey. These spikes are less efficient against large waterbirds like herons, pelicans and egrets as these birds can manoeuvre their long legs around the spikes. Similarly, they are less effective against smaller passerine birds like pipits or swallows because of their small size and ability to perch between spikes. That being said, when mitigating bird strikes, smaller passerine birds typically present lower levels of risk.
Now that I know what kind of birds I want to target, what size of bird spikes are best in my aerodrome?
Bird spike designs offer pins with different lengths, configurations, and angles. Narrower strips with fewer rows of pins are suitable for narrow surfaces or structures, while wider strips with more rows of pins facilitate easier coverage on broader surfaces. It is important to note that having more pins doesn't necessarily guarantee increased effectiveness in bird dispersal. Optimal coverage is typically achieved with sets of two, three, or four pins.
Great! I have my sizing down, now what material of bird spikes are best in my aerodrome?
Robust stainless steel spikes are the preferred choice for deterring birds of prey like eagles.
Airports benefit from utilising spikes containing stainless steel due to their resilience in outdoor environments subjected to various weather conditions. In certain critical areas such as ILS lights and radio towers, stainless steel suitability diminishes for airports due to potential interference with radar and radio signals. In such specific scenarios, plastic spikes can be utilised instead.
With numerous bird spikes available on the market, selecting those designed to withstand outdoor conditions in your aerodrome is essential. Opt for spikes with thicker pins and a sturdy base to ensure a sustainable deployment. Additionally, consider the quality of the adhesive used to secure the spikes. Choosing an adhesive suited for the outdoor environment is advisable to maintain adherence during various weather conditions.
Implementing bird spikes in strategic locations within airports can be a beneficial and useful tool that is often overlooked in bird strike prevention. Considering factors such as target bird species, surface characteristics, and environmental conditions ensures the effectiveness and longevity of bird spike installations. As airports progress and new technologies advance, it is important to take a step back and remember the bread and butter of wildlife hazard management; bird spikes.
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