Everything you need to know about bird spikes

One of the most reliable methods of bird-proofing buildings long term is to install bird spikes. Here, the different types and sizes of bird spikes used to protect properties against pigeons and seagulls are explained.

Do pigeon spikes hurt or injure the birds?

All of the Defender® Bird Spike range is humane. PiCAS recommends Bird spikes as one of the best long-term methods of bird-proofing buildings. The pins of the spikes act as a visual and physical barrier so the birds can no longer gain access to the ledge to perch on it, moving them on to other more accessible areas.

Are they designed only for pigeons?

The Defender® Bird Spike range has a product suitable for pigeons, seagulls and small garden birds like sparrows and starlings. Spikes For Pigeons have pins that are the optimum height and angle for deterring pigeons and other like-size birds. For larger birds such as seagulls, we have Spikes for Seagulls which have longer length pins which are suitable for the longer legs of gulls. Smaller birds, such as sparrows and starlings, may overcome these spikes. The Defender® Thistle spike has a much denser pattern of pins that doesn’t allow the small birds to access ledges.

What is the difference between steel and plastic spikes?

Both types of spike protect ledges equally; the only differences are aesthetics and cost. The plastic spike is slightly cheaper and reflects the background colour of where it is installed. The stainless steel version is considered slightly less visible against buildings due to its thinner matt pins and is usually the choice of pest control professionals.

Does the steel rust and the plastic become brittle?

Defender® Stainless Steel Bird Spikes are made from 304 Grade Stainless Steel and come with a 25 Year “No-Rust” Warranty when installed in the UK. The Defender® plastic spikes are made from UV Durolon Polycarbonate, which doesn’t become brittle or yellow in the elements. This spike comes with a 15 Year Warranty for UK installs.

Can I fit spikes to uneven, curved or decorative surfaces?

Defender® Spikes can be fitted to any surface, whether it’s uneven or curved. The bases have snappable sections that can be broken with just your fingers. Installing these smaller pieces means any shaped surface can be protected from birds.

Why do they come in varying widths?

The varying widths that Defender® Bird Spikes come in enables the installer to choose the most appropriate size for the ledge they are protecting, whether a narrow pipe or a large window sill. The different heights account for the different sizes of birds. A large seagull can overcome the smaller-height pigeon spike due to its long legs. Therefore a specialist seagull spike has been developed.

Can I use any brand of silicone?

There are many kinds of silicone on the market. Some are suitable for attaching pigeon spike bases to a surface. However, some are not and may stick to the ledge surface but not to the base of the spike. Defender® has developed a silicone that works in conjunction with the Defender® spike bases, creating an immediate bond, which means the spikes get to work straightaway at proofing your property. You can find out more about it here - Defender® Bird Spike Fixing Silicone

Are there different ways to attach the spikes to a surface?

Defender® Spikes come with silicone fixing holes along the base. Using silicone is our recommended method to install bird spikes, as the glue will ooze through the holes, creating a lock and holding the spikes in place instantly. However, these holes can also be used for screws or nails if prefered. For a less permanent fix, cable ties can be used.