Anglers are often faced with the challenge of birds eating their crops. While many methods exist to keep birds away, using fishing line as a bird deterrent is a simple, affordable, and effective solution.
The technique involves stretching any type of fishing line across your garden in rows and across in a weaving fashion for added strength. Tie your fishing to trees, poles, or other high items to create a net-like barrier that birds cannot fly through.
Many bird species, such as sparrows, robins, and blackbirds, can cause significant damage to crops, fruits, and vegetables. Using fishing line as a bird deterrent is a humane and non-lethal method that does not harm birds or other wildlife. Additionally, it is an eco-friendly solution that does not involve the use of chemicals or pesticides that can harm the environment.
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Why Use Fishing Line Bird Deterrents?
Here are some reasons why you might want to consider using fishing line as a bird deterrent:
Benefits of Using Fishing Line as a Bird Deterrent
- Cost-effective: Fishing line is a relatively inexpensive material, making it an affordable option for bird control and a great way to use old fishing lines.
- Humane: Do not harm birds in any way. They simply discourage them from entering certain areas.
- Easy to install: Fishing line can be easily strung up between posts, trees, or other structures to create a barrier that birds will not want to cross.
- Versatile: Fishing line can be used to keep a wide variety of birds away, including sparrows, starlings, seagulls, and robins.
Types of Birds That Can Be Deterred with Fishing Line
Different types of birds may be deterred by fishing line bird deterrents for different reasons. Some birds are afraid of getting tangled in the line, while others are simply put off by the visual barrier it creates.
Here are some examples of birds that can be deterred with fishing line but are by no means limited to this list:
- Sparrows: Sparrows are small, agile birds that can be difficult to keep away from certain areas. However, fishing line bird deterrents often deter them because they fear getting tangled in the line.
- Starlings: Starlings are known for their aggressive behaviour and can be a nuisance in gardens and orchards. Fishing line bird deterrents can be effective in keeping them away from these areas.
- Seagulls: Seagulls are attracted to areas where they can find food, such as garbage dumps and fishing boats. Fishing line bird deterrents can be used to prevent them from getting in your garden.
- Robins: Robins are known for their love of fruit and can be problematic in orchards. Fishing line bird deterrents can be used to keep them away from fruit trees.
How to Install Fishing Line Bird Deterrents
Here’s a guide on how to install fishing line bird deterrents.
Choosing the Right Fishing Line
When choosing a fishing line for bird deterrents, any fishing would work, but monofilament fishing line seems to work best. Monofilament fishing line is more visible and easier to tie strong knots.
Attaching the Fishing Line to Poles or Stakes
Once you have your fishing line, the next step is to attach it to poles or stakes. Tie the fishing line securely to the top of the pole or stake, leaving enough length to reach the ground. Continue tying the fishing line to each pole or stake, ensuring that the line is tight and secured.
Spacing and Placement of the Fishing Line
The spacing of the fishing line depends on the type of bird you want to deter. You can space the lines closer together for smaller birds, while you need to space them farther apart for larger birds. The general rule is to space the lines every 4-8 inches.
To make the bird deterrent more effective, you can create a zigzag pattern with the fishing line, making it difficult for birds to land or perch on.
Maintenance Tips
To ensure the effectiveness of your fishing line bird deterrent, you need to maintain it regularly. Check the lines frequently for any damages or slackness. Replace any damaged lines and tighten any slack lines.
Other Bird Deterrent Options
While fishing lines can be an effective bird deterrent, there are other options anglers can consider to keep birds away from their fishing gear and catch. Here are some other bird deterrent options to consider:
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers are a great way to deter birds from accessing areas you want to protect. Some physical barriers include:
- Netting: Cover your fishing gear with fine mesh netting to prevent birds from landing on it.
- Cages: Place your fishing gear inside a cage to keep birds away.
- Umbrellas: An umbrella creates a physical barrier between your fishing gear and birds.
Bird Spikes
Bird spikes are another effective way to keep birds away. These spikes can be placed on surfaces where birds like to perch, making it uncomfortable for them to land. Some bird spikes are made from stainless steel, while others are made from plastic.
Scarecrow and Scare Tape
Scarecrows and scare tape are designed to scare birds away from an area. Scarecrows are life-sized models of birds of prey, while scare tape is a reflective tape that moves in the wind. Both can be effective in keeping birds away from your fishing gear.
Reflective Tape and Aluminum Foil
Reflective tape and aluminum foil can be used to create flashes of light that scare birds away. These materials can be attached to fishing gear or placed around the area where you are fishing.
Using DVDs and CDs can also work in a similar fashion with great success.
Wind Chimes
Wind chimes can be used to create a noise that scares birds away. Hang wind chimes near your fishing gear to keep birds at bay.
Professional Bird Control Services
If you’ve tried various bird deterrents and still can’t seem to get rid of pesky birds, it may be time to call in a professional bird control service.
These services are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to safely and humanely remove birds from your property. Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider calling a wildlife specialist.
When to Call a Wildlife Specialist
- If you have a large bird infestation that you can’t seem to control on your own
- If you have a bird problem that is causing damage to your property or posing a health risk
- If you have tried various bird deterrents without success
- If you are dealing with a protected bird species and need help with legal compliance
Bird Droppings
Bird droppings are not only unsightly, but they can also pose a health risk to humans and pets. Bird droppings can contain harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. A professional bird control service can help clean up bird droppings and prevent further damage to your property.
Mites and Bugs in Attics and Docks
Birds can carry mites and other bugs that can infest your home. These pests can cause damage to your property and pose a health risk to humans and pets. A professional bird control service can help remove these pests and prevent further infestations.
A professional bird control service can help you safely and humanely remove birds from your property. They can also help clean up bird droppings and remove pests associated with bird infestations. If you’re an angler dealing with a bird problem, consider calling a wildlife specialist for help.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using fishing line as a bird deterrent is a relatively new method that has shown some promise for anglers. However, it should be noted that there are many variables that have not yet been addressed, and more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of this method.
One key advantage of using fishing line as a bird deterrent is that it is a low-cost and non-toxic solution. It is also easy to install and maintain, making it a convenient option for anglers who want to protect their equipment and surroundings from birds.
It is important to note that while fishing line may be effective in deterring some bird species, it may not work for all types of birds. Some birds may be more persistent or may not be deterred by this method. Additionally, it may take some trial and error to find the right placement and tension of the fishing line to achieve the desired results.
Overall, using fishing line as a bird deterrent is a promising option for anglers who want to protect their equipment and surroundings from birds. While more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness, it is a low-cost and non-toxic solution that is worth considering.
