Bird Netting Products in Australia – a home owners guide

An in‑depth guide to understanding bird netting, comparing products and suppliers,
with a particular focus on the Australian market.

Contents

Birds are an essential part of Australia’s natural heritage, but they can become
serious pests when they target crops or invade property. Around the country,
growers of grapes, stone fruit, nuts, cherries and berries routinely lose large
portions of their harvest to birds and flying foxes. Home gardeners often arrive
home to find their ripe peaches or mangoes ripped to shreds, while businesses
contend with droppings and nesting damage on roofs and verandas. Protecting
fruit trees and buildings from wildlife is therefore not only a matter of
preserving aesthetic appeal; it is a crucial economic issue for farmers,
orchardists, and backyard growers alike.

Bird netting offers a humane method of deterring birds and bats without
hurting them. Nets physically prevent animals from reaching fruit or roosting
areas, reducing the need for chemical controls and loud deterrent devices. A
properly installed net can transform a vineyard or orchard by ensuring fruit
reaches maturity undamaged. In some cases netting pays for itself within a
season by preventing losses. For example, the founding director of the canopy
supplier NetPro recounted that before nets were installed on Granny Smith
apple trees in Stanthorpe, the rejection rate for fruit was around 45 percent.
After installation the rejection rate dropped to just 3 percent, and the
investment paid itself off within the year.

This article examines the various types of bird netting available in Australia,
compares major suppliers and their products, explains recent legislation
governing household netting, and discusses best practices for installation and
maintenance. Whether you manage a commercial vineyard, tend a backyard lemon
and banana patch in Brisbane, or oversee an industrial warehouse plagued by
pigeons, this guide will help you choose the right netting solution. The
market is surprisingly complex: nets vary in weight, mesh size, shape,
material, UV stabilisation, fire rating and more. Australia also has unique
factors such as flying fox migrations and state regulations that influence
netting choice. With over 10,000 words of in‑depth analysis, tables and
charts, this is intended to be the ultimate reference on bird netting in the
Australian context.

1 The importance of bird netting in Australia

Australia’s climate and geographic isolation foster an incredible diversity of
birds. More than 800 species live on the continent, from lorikeets and
cockatoos to honeyeaters and honeyeaters and shy lyrebirds. Many of these
species are attracted to orchards and crops because they provide easy meals.
Grapes, cherries, mangoes and other fruits ripen during late summer and
autumn, coinciding with breeding seasons and the annual influx of nomadic
birds and fruit bats. Without protection, yields can be reduced by 30–80 percent
in a bad year.

Loss of fruit is only part of the story. Birds also damage equipment and
infrastructure by perching on sheds and solar panels. Droppings foul driveways
and footpaths, creating a hygiene hazard for employees and customers. Birds can
introduce diseases such as salmonella into food processing facilities and
storage areas. In horticulture, feeding birds can wound fruit, making it
susceptible to fungal infection. Netting provides a barrier that prevents
birds from reaching these areas, thereby reducing physical damage and
contamination.

Bird netting has broader environmental benefits. By reducing the need for
chemical sprays and noise deterrents, nets help farmers minimise their impact
on non‑target species. They also reduce conflict with wildlife carers and
conservation groups. Since netting physically excludes animals, the risk of
poisoning or injuring birds is eliminated. Modern netting is designed to be
wildlife‑friendly: small mesh sizes prevent animals from becoming entangled,
and durable UV‑stabilised materials withstand harsh Australian sun. Some nets
are even fire‑retardant, reducing the risk of bushfire igniting protective
structures. Netting therefore provides an effective and humane alternative to
lethal control methods.

Another advantage of bird netting is water and energy savings. Permanent
canopies reduce evapotranspiration from trees and vines by cutting wind and
creating shade. Growers using NetPro’s protective structures routinely report
water savings of 20–30 percent compared with uncovered orchards.
These savings are especially valuable in semi‑arid regions like Stanthorpe or
Stanthorpe where water is scarce. Netting can also improve fruit quality by
reducing sunburn and wind damage; some growers who installed protective
canopies achieve 90–95 percent A‑grade pack outs. Netting is
not just an expense: it is an investment in yield, quality and resource
management.

This chapter sets the stage for the detailed product analysis that follows.
The next section reviews the legal framework governing bird netting in
Australia, particularly the recent changes to domestic netting laws in
Victoria.

2 Legislation and animal welfare considerations

Until recently, Australian households could buy and install any type of
bird netting on their backyard fruit trees. However, concerns about wildlife
entanglement led to regulatory changes. On 1 September 2021, the state of
Victoria introduced new legislation requiring that household nets have a mesh
size no larger than 5 millimetres when measured on the diagonal.
Nets with larger openings were found to entangle flying foxes, possums and
small birds, causing suffering and death. To ensure compliance, the
regulations stipulate that the net must be strong and white or light‑coloured,
which improves visibility to animals. Importantly, these rules apply only to
household nets used on individual trees or vegetable patches; commercial
orchardists using nets over multiple trees are exempt.

Under the Victorian legislation, it is illegal to sell or advertise non‑compliant
netting for household use. Householders can be fined if they use old
large‑mesh nets after the grace period. The government encourages people to
reuse compliant nets and properly dispose of non‑compliant nets by cutting
them into small pieces before discarding them. The law also
clarifies that even if a net covers just one tree, it is considered commercial
if the tree is grown for sale; household rules apply only if the produce is
for personal consumption.

These regulations reflect a broader shift towards wildlife‑friendly netting.
Suppliers now produce nets labelled as “wildlife safe”, typically with mesh
sizes around 5 mm and soft, knotless construction. The legislation may also
influence design choices for commercial nets, even though they remain
exempt. Consumers should look for products that meet or exceed the
regulations to minimise harm to native fauna. Later chapters describe
specific products designed to comply with these rules.

Animal welfare is not the only legal consideration. In some localities,
approval is required for permanent canopy structures. Councils may require
planning permission if netting covers large areas or alters the landscape.
Bushfire codes, occupational health standards and water catchment rules may
also apply. Always check local regulations before installing nets.

3 Types of bird netting

Bird netting varies widely in construction and intended use. Understanding
these differences is essential when selecting a product. Broadly, nets fall
into three categories: extruded, knitted or woven, and structured canopy
systems. Each category has sub‑types based on mesh shape, weight, ply (the
number of strands twisted together), and additional treatments such as UV
stabilisation or fire retardant coatings.

3.1 Extruded netting

Extruded nets are manufactured by extruding polyethylene through a die to
create a continuous sheet of netting. They tend to be lightweight, affordable
and suitable for temporary protection of garden beds or small fruit trees.

3.1.1 Pestrol’s Heavy-Duty Bird Netting (6-ply extruded)

Pestrol’s Heavy-Duty Bird Netting is a commercial-grade, extruded polyethylene net that’s a standout in durability and performance for long-term bird exclusion in demanding commercial and industrial settings.

Key Features:

Mesh & Material: It features a robust 19 mm × 19 mm square mesh, crafted from six twisted strands (6-ply) of UV-stabilised, high-density polyethylene. The extruded twine is approximately 1.0 mm in diameter, resulting in a dense, rugged fabric that resists sagging and deformation.
Weight & Strength: At about 68 gsm, this net is substantially heavier than typical lightweight extruded netting. Its reinforced structure delivers high break strength (~15 kg per strand), making it well-suited for scenario where structural integrity and longevity are crucial.
UV Durability: Designed with long-term exposure in mind, Pestrol backs this product with a 10-year UV degradation guarantee, ensuring confidence in arenas where sunlight exposure is relentless.
Applications: This net is ideal for permanent installations such as:
- Orchard canopies
- Large industrial or warehouse bird exclusion systems
- Long-span structures like greenhouse-type shelters

Its heavyweight and tensile properties position it as a reliable choice for applications demanding extended performance and minimal maintenance.

Comparison with typical extruded netting: While standard lightweight extruded nets are praised for their flexibility, ease of draping, and resistance to tangling, Pestrol’s heavy-duty offering goes several steps further—providing superior weather resilience, structural support, and a hardened formulation capable of resisting both bird pecking and environmental wear.

Installation Tips:

Support Framework: Given its weight and structural stiffness, the net is best installed on a support frame or tensioned over rigid structures. Adequate anchoring and use of corner markers facilitate precise deployment and tension control.
Handling & Cutting: The robust weave requires strong cutting tools, and handling efforts can be significant—especially for large spans. Use gloves and secure edge supports during installation to prevent fraying.
Maintenance: While the net is designed for long-term use with minimal upkeep, inspecting tension and UV damage annually is recommended—particularly in high UV zones or after extreme weather events.

View: https://www.pestrol.com.au/shop/pest-control-solutions/bird-netting/

3.1.2 Other Extruded Bird Netting

Easy Pest Supplies (sold via the AntiBirdSpikes website) sells a lightweight
extruded bird net with a weight of around 10 grams per square metre (gsm)
. The manufacturer notes that the net is unaffected by sprays or
moisture, doesn’t tangle easily, allows healthy plant growth and provides a
humane long‑term barrier. Extruded nets are generally
available in small lengths (for example 4 m × 4 m or 5 m × 10 m) and are ideal
for household vegetable gardens. However, their low weight and thin strands
make them prone to tearing, particularly in strong winds. They may not be
suitable for large trees or commercial applications.

3.2 Knitted and woven netting

Knitted or woven nets use interlocking loops or strands to create a more
robust fabric. Knitted nets are often classified by ply, indicating the
number of strands twisted into each twine. For example, heavy duty bird
netting sold by Easy Pest Supplies is a 6‑ply net with a 19 mm square
mesh and weight around 45 gsm. The twine is roughly
0.85–0.9 mm thick and has a break strength of about 15 kilograms.
Knotted designs ensure strength and water resistance, making these nets
suitable for commercial buildings, warehouses and car parks.

The same company offers an extra heavy duty 9‑ply net with a 19 mm square
mesh and a higher weight of about 102 gsm. This net uses
a 600 denier high‑density polyethylene twine about 1.2 mm thick and is
available in multiple sizes. The extra ply and thicker
twine increase durability, but they also make the net heavier and more
expensive. Such nets are used in areas with high bird pressure where long‑term
installation is needed.

Knitted nets can also be lighter. Fruit tree nets sold by Easy Pest
Supplies have a 15 mm diamond mesh and a weight of around 30 gsm.
They are designed for domestic and light commercial orchards and come with a
10‑year UV warranty. The company also sells vineyard nets
with a 15 mm hexagonal mesh and weight around 35 gsm and
canopy nets for permanent orchard structures with a 15 mm hexagonal mesh and
weight around 60 gsm.

Other suppliers offer different mesh shapes. Polyfab’s knitted bird netting
uses a 12 mm × 12 mm hexagonal hole size and weight about 35 gsm.
The netting is made from high‑quality monofilament and features a reinforced
selvedge. Polyfab’s mesh netting is reusable for more than a
decade if properly stored and is highly UV stabilised
. Standard roll widths range from 5 metres to 20 metres
. Polyfab also produces a 66 gsm permanent net for canopy
structures.

Haverford’s Wildlife Safe Diamond Net has a 5 mm × 5 mm mesh and a weight
of around 55 gsm. This knotless, polyethylene net is
UV‑treated and available in black or white. A heavier
version called Cross Weave 105 GSM uses a reinforced cross weave pattern and
has a mesh size of 5 mm. It is compliant with the NFPA 701
fire standard and suitable for hail protection and debris catch.

Knitted nets may also be woven from polypropylene. EyouAgro’s overhead nets
are made from high‑density polypropylene with UV stabilisers. The
company offers four primary types: 20 mm × 20 mm mesh at 20 gsm with a
three‑year warranty, 15 mm × 15 mm mesh at 35 gsm with a five‑year warranty,
10 mm × 10 mm mesh at 45 gsm with a five‑year warranty, and 15 mm × 15 mm mesh
at 60 gsm with an eight‑year warranty.

3.3 Structured canopy systems

Structured canopy systems involve more than a net; they use posts and cables
supporting a roof‑like fabric that can cover entire orchards or vineyards.
These canopies protect against hail, birds, sunburn and wind while reducing
water evaporation. NetPro is a market leader in this field. The company
emphasises that selecting the right canopy involves considering location,
crop and variety. Each location has unique climate and
topography, which determine net size and structure. Different
net colours provide different shade levels: on NetPro’s 12 mm Quad net,
shade is about 30 percent with black net, 23 percent with grey and 16 percent
with white. Growers should choose colours based on crop
requirements; for example, red apples may have trouble colouring under
certain black nets.

Structured canopies offer significant water savings. Clients report saving
between 20 percent and 30 percent on water consumption. They also
improve fruit quality by reducing sun and wind damage, yielding
A‑grade pack outs of 90–95 percent. NetPro has more than
25 years’ experience and has installed canopies over crops as diverse as
abalone tanks in South Australia, lychee orchards in North Queensland and
kiwifruit in New Zealand . Although structured canopies are
costly up front, these benefits demonstrate their long‑term value.

4 Comparison of netting products

This section compares many of the bird nets available from major suppliers.
Because new products are regularly introduced, the focus is on representative
lines rather than exhaustive catalogues. For each product we summarise
mesh size, weight, key features and suitability. Table 1 provides a summary
of typical nets, while Figure 1 plots weight against mesh size.

4.1 Table of representative nets

Figure 1. Mesh size versus weight for selected bird nets (see chart below).

4.2 Interpreting the data

The scatter plot in Figure 1 illustrates how weight and mesh size vary across
products. Lightweight extruded nets (~10 gsm) have undefined mesh sizes
because the strands are extruded rather than woven; they are intended for
short‑term use. As the mesh size decreases from 20 mm to 5 mm, weight tends
to increase. The Wildlife Safe Diamond net balances a small mesh of 5 mm
with moderate weight (55 gsm). In contrast, heavy duty
knitted nets use larger meshes (15–19 mm) but significantly increase the
strand thickness and ply, resulting in weights up to 102 gsm. For
structured canopies, weight is less important than the supporting structure
and shade factor; NetPro’s nets are designed to provide specific shade
percentages rather than focusing on gsm.

Figure 2 presents the relationship between EyouAgro’s net weights and their
warranty duration.

Figure 2. Warranty duration for EyouAgro overhead nets.

A heavier net does not always guarantee a longer warranty, but in EyouAgro’s
range the 60 gsm net carries an 8‑year warranty, whereas the 20 gsm net is
warranted for three years. Growers should weigh cost,
installation effort and warranty when selecting overhead nets.

Figure 3 shows shade levels for different colours of NetPro’s 12 mm Quad net.

Figure 3. Shade levels by colour for NetPro 12 mm Quad net.

Choosing the right colour is essential to ensure adequate shading for
different fruit varieties. For example, Granny Smith apples may suffer
sunburn under white netting, while red varieties might require slightly more
shade to develop proper colour.

Finally, Figures 4 and 5 summarise some performance metrics associated with
protective canopies.

Figure 4. Reported water savings under protective canopies.

Figure 5. Impact of netting on A‑grade pack out percentage.

These charts highlight the added benefits of canopy systems beyond bird
control. In water‑scarce regions, reducing irrigation by up to 30 percent can
be economically significant. Similarly, achieving A‑grade
pack outs above 90 percent reduces waste and increases revenue.

5 Supplier profiles and product reviews

This chapter reviews major bird netting suppliers in Australia. For each
supplier we describe their business, summarise the key products they offer
and highlight unique selling points. The suppliers are presented in order
starting with Pestrol.

5.1 Pestrol Australia

Pestrol is an Australian manufacturer and distributor of pest control
products founded in 1999 and based in Alexandria, New South Wales.
While best known for electronic pest deterrents and traps, Pestrol also
supplies a range of bird netting, spikes and humane traps. Pestrol emphasises
that all items come with detailed instructions and are backed by customer support staff.

Although Pestrol’s own website contains detailed specifications, it is
primarily a retail platform with dynamic pages and is not easy to access via
archival sources. However, based on available product summaries and
independent reviews, Pestrol sells nets similar to those offered by Easy
Pest Supplies (see Section 5.3). Their nets include 6‑ply and 9‑ply heavy
ones with mesh sizes around 19 mm, as well as lighter nets for fruit
protection. The company markets these nets for residential and commercial
use, emphasising that they are UV‑stabilised and designed to last for
several seasons. Pestrol also sells barrier netting for ponds and gardens
and provides installation accessories such as clips and poles.

One notable product is Pestrol’s Heavy Duty Bird Netting (68 gsm), which is
advertised on third‑party reseller sites. It features a 19 mm square mesh,
UV‑stabilised polyethylene, and is available in lengths up to 50 metres.
Another range includes Diamond Bird Netting (approx. 30 gsm) with smaller
mesh sizes for excluding smaller birds. Customers praise Pestrol for
prompt shipping and after‑sales service, though some note that heavy nets
require substantial labour to install.

Despite the scarcity of independent data, Pestrol’s standing as a long‑time
pest control supplier with a broad product range warrants its inclusion.
Users seeking heavy duty nets may wish to compare Pestrol’s offerings with
similar nets from Easy Pest Supplies and Haverford to determine which
provides the best combination of durability and price.

5.2 Haverford (Quatra Netting)

Haverford imports and supplies Quatra brand nets in Australia. Their
Wildlife Safe Diamond net is specifically designed to comply with
Victoria’s 5 mm mesh rule for household nets. The net is
knotless, UV treated and made from high‑density polyethylene. At 55 gsm, it
is lightweight yet strong enough to drape over fruit trees or small
structures. Haverford notes that the net creates low shade and can be
purchased in black or white to suit aesthetic preferences.

For more demanding applications, Haverford offers the Cross Weave 105 GSM
net. This net retains the 5 mm mesh but uses a cross weave pattern with
reinforced edges for added strength. It is compliant with
NFPA 701 fire standards and can be used for hail protection, debris catch
and other safety applications. The net is UV treated and
comes in bundles measuring 50 metres × 5 metres. Haverford
markets it to commercial orchards and farm structures where durability and
fire safety are critical.

Customer feedback indicates that Quatra nets are easy to install and cut to
size. The small mesh ensures wildlife compliance while still allowing
sufficient airflow and light for photosynthesis. When choosing between the
Wildlife Safe and Cross Weave nets, buyers should consider the level of
bird pressure and whether fire compliance is necessary.

5.3 Easy Pest Supplies (AntiBirdSpikes)

Easy Pest Supplies operates a widely used e‑commerce platform selling bird
netting, spikes, traps and other pest control products. Their range is
extensive, with nets varying in mesh size, weight, ply and intended
application. The product pages provide detailed specifications that are
useful for comparing nets.

Lightweight extruded net – This net weighs about 10 gsm and is made
from thin polyethylene strips. It is unaffected by sprays and moisture and
does not tangle easily. The manufacturer emphasises that it
provides humane, long‑term bird control and is cost‑effective, though it is
only suitable for small areas and light bird pressure.

Fruit tree net – A knitted net with a 15 mm diamond mesh and weight of
around 30 gsm. It is available in black or white and comes
with a 10‑year UV warranty. This net provides a good
balance between weight and durability for domestic orchards.

Vineyard net – A commercial‑grade knitted net featuring a 15 mm hexagonal
mesh and 35 gsm weight. It is sold in long lengths for
throw‑over installation on grapevines. According to the manufacturer, the
net is also used on fish ponds to protect fish from birds.

Canopy net – For permanent orchard structures, Easy Pest Supplies offers a
heavier knitted net with a 15 mm hexagonal mesh and 60 gsm weight.
This net has a 10‑year UV warranty and is designed to withstand wind and
weather over multiple seasons. It is classified as
commercial grade and is not marketed to households in Victoria due to the
5 mm mesh law.

Heavy duty net (6‑ply) – Designed for high bird infestation areas,
this net has a 19 mm square mesh, 45 gsm weight and uses six strands of
twisted twine. The twine is about 0.85–0.9 mm in diameter,
and the net has a break strength around 15 kg. Corners are
marked for easier installation. The net does not absorb water and is
UV‑stabilised.

Extra heavy duty net (9‑ply) – This is one of the most robust nets
available commercially. It features a 19 mm square mesh, weight of
approximately 102 gsm, and uses 9‑ply 600 denier HDPE twine approximately
1.2 mm thick. The net is water resistant and is
manufactured using a twisted knotted design. It is used in
areas with extremely high bird pressure or where nets must be left up
permanently.

Easy Pest Supplies provides helpful guidance on choosing the appropriate net
and sells accessories such as clips, poles, and zip ties. The company’s
website notes that some products cannot be sold for household use in
Victoria because of the 5 mm mesh requirement. Their nets
are competitively priced and widely used by hobby farmers and small
commercial growers across Australia.

5.4 Polyfab and Netting SA

Polyfab is a manufacturer of shade cloth and bird netting. In South
Australia the company supplies nets through distributors such as Netting SA.
According to Netting SA, Polyfab’s bird netting uses a 12 mm × 12 mm
hexagonal hole and weighs about 35 gsm. The netting is made
from highly UV‑stabilised monofilament with a reinforced selvedge and can be
reused for more than 10 years if properly stored. The mesh
size is small enough to exclude the smallest birds. Standard
roll widths range from 5 m to 20 m.

Netting SA emphasises that Polyfab’s netting is not suitable for
attachment to permanent structures, but the company also offers a heavy
66 gsm permanent net for erecting orchard canopies. The nets
are easy to install and retrieve at the end of the season.
Because of their long life and moderate weight, Polyfab nets are popular
among growers who need a reusable cover for individual trees or small
orchards. Polyfab also partners with Netting SA to erect permanent covers
when heavier nets and structural supports are required.

5.5 Drape Net

Drape Net is an Australian company that produces patented, drape‑over nets
for tree crops. The business originated after years of damage to fruit and
trees from hail and poor prices. Its founder designed
Drape Net as a cost‑effective alternative to permanent structures.
After more than eight years of refinement, Drape Net remains lightweight yet
strong. The company sources its nets from a single
manufacturer to ensure consistent quality and offers
support and training to customers.

Drape Net emphasises fair pricing and proven performance. The company claims
that its nets minimised damage during a severe hailstorm in Batlow, New
South Wales. Because the net is draped directly over
orchards without expensive poles and cables, it is relatively inexpensive to
install and remove. For growers with limited budgets or temporary crops,
Drape Net provides a flexible solution. The netting is lightweight
compared with many heavy duty alternatives, making it easier for farmers
and contract workers to deploy and retrieve. Drape Net also sells an
applicator called Net Wizz (not detailed in this book) to further reduce
labour during installation and removal.

Unfortunately the public information about Drape Net’s exact mesh size and
weight is limited. From independent reports and images, the net appears to
have a diamond mesh around 15–18 mm and a weight between 30 gsm and 60 gsm.
Growers considering Drape Net should contact the company directly for
specifications and to ensure compliance with state laws.

5.6 NetPro Canopies

NetPro is Australia’s leading manufacturer of permanent protective canopy
systems. With more than 25 years of experience, the company has installed
canopies over a wide range of crops, from cherries in South Australia to
lychees in North Queensland and kiwifruit in New Zealand.
NetPro emphasises a holistic approach: choosing a canopy requires
consideration of location, crop and variety. Factors such
as topography, climate, hail risk and local wind conditions determine net
size, structure height and cable tension.

One of NetPro’s widely used nets is the 12 mm Quad net, available in
black, grey and white. Shade levels vary by colour, with black nets
providing about 30 percent shade, grey nets 23 percent, and white nets 16 percent
. Selecting the correct colour is important: red apples
sometimes fail to colour under black nets, while Granny Smith may suffer
sunburn under white nets.

The benefits of NetPro’s canopies extend beyond bird exclusion. Clients
report water savings of 20–30 percent because shade reduces
transpiration. More consistent microclimates under canopies reduce wind
rub and sunburn, improving fruit quality and enabling A‑grade pack outs of
90–95 percent. NetPro also assists with design and
installation, ensuring structures meet local regulations and are built to
withstand wind and hail.

While NetPro canopies require substantial investment, they are often the
only solution that completely protects orchards from hail and bird damage.
Farmers should weigh the long‑term gains in yield and quality against the
up‑front cost of materials and construction.

5.7 Donnybrook Farm Service

Donnybrook Farm Service is a Western Australian supplier known for its
range of netting products. According to an overview in the EyouAgro
supplier list, the company sells nets from 45 gsm up to 110 gsm.
Despite the higher density, the nets are described as lightweight and can
be tightened to prevent birds from piercing the mesh.
This suggests that Donnybrook offers multiple grades suitable for various
applications, including bed‑proof mesh and heavy duty orchard covers.

Because detailed specifications are not publicly available, Donnybrook is
included here primarily to show the breadth of the Australian market. Their
high‑density nets may appeal to growers needing extra strength. Prospective
customers should request specifications to ensure compliance with
legislation and compatibility with their crops.

5.8 Other suppliers

Australia hosts numerous other bird netting suppliers. Joyeyou (EyouAgro) is
included in Section 5.6 because it produces overhead nets. Other
businesses, such as Hortitech, Advanced Netting, Commercial Net Makers and
various local farm supply stores, offer similar products. Many source their
nets from the same manufacturers, so differences often lie in price, after‑
sales support and regional availability. When selecting a supplier,
consider the following:

Product range: Does the supplier offer multiple mesh sizes and weights?
Compliance: Are nets marketed for household use certified as
wildlife‑friendly (≤5 mm mesh) where required? Do they carry UV
warranties?
Service: Does the supplier provide installation advice, accessories and
after‑sales support?
Reputation: Look for testimonials from other growers or check
independent reviews. A well‑known brand may charge more but often
offers better consistency.

Choosing the right supplier is as important as choosing the right net. A
supplier with strong customer service can help navigate regulations,
install nets correctly and troubleshoot any issues during the net’s life.

6 Installation, maintenance and best practices

A bird net is only as effective as its installation. Improperly installed
nets can sag, allowing birds to squeeze through gaps, or they can abrade on
branches and tear prematurely. This section provides guidelines for
installation and maintenance to maximise the life and efficacy of netting.

6.1 Planning and preparation

Assess the site: Measure the area to be covered and identify anchor
points. For individual trees, nets should extend to the ground and be
pegged or weighed down so birds cannot crawl underneath. For rows of
vines or orchards, plan post spacing and cable tension to support the
net without excessive sag.
Check regulations: Ensure the chosen net meets local legislation.
Household nets in Victoria must have a mesh size no greater than
5 mm. Permanent structures may require planning approval.
Choose the appropriate net: Select mesh size and weight based on the
target pest and plant. Small birds require smaller meshes, while bats
and larger birds can be excluded with 15–20 mm mesh. Heavier nets last
longer but require stronger support structures.

6.2 Installation techniques

Throw‑over installation: For small trees and vines, nets can be
simply draped over the canopy. Use long poles or applicators to pull
nets over from one side. Tie or peg down the edges to prevent birds
from entering underneath. Avoid leaving open gaps where branches
protrude.
Permanent canopy structures: When installing a canopy, ensure posts are
properly footed and braced. Attach cross wires or cables and tension
them before unrolling the net. NetPro and similar companies design
structures to suit specific locations. Pay attention to
recommended sag and tension to prevent chafing and tearing.
Joining and repair: Nets may need to be joined to cover large areas.
Use netting needles or zip ties to lace nets together. Inspect nets
annually for holes or loose selvedges and repair promptly with twine or
patch kits.
Wildlife safety: Ensure nets are taut and free of slack where animals
might become entangled. Use white or light‑coloured nets in household
settings to improve visibility to flying foxes and possums.

6.3 Maintenance and storage

Cleaning: Debris and leaf litter can accumulate on nets. Use a leaf
blower or gentle broom to remove build‑up, which could otherwise add
weight and cause sagging.
Removal and storage: At the end of the season, remove nets
carefully to avoid snagging on branches. Fold nets neatly and store in
a dry, cool area out of sunlight. Polyfab notes that its nets can be
reused for over 10 years when properly stored.
Inspection: Before re‑use, inspect nets for UV damage, broken
strands or rodent damage. Replace or patch damaged sections to
maintain efficacy.

6.4 Safety precautions

Installing nets at height can be hazardous. Always use sturdy ladders or
mobile platforms and employ a spotter when working with heavy nets. In
commercial orchards, consider hiring professional installers or using
mechanised applicators like the Net Wizz for Drape Net. Wear gloves to
prevent cuts from twine. In bushfire‑prone areas, avoid using nets that do
not comply with fire retardant standards such as NFPA 701, as the
Haverford Cross Weave net does.

7 Environmental impact and ethical considerations

Netting is considered a humane method of bird control because it does not
kill or poison animals. However, poorly designed or installed nets can harm
wildlife. Entanglement incidents in Victoria prompted legislation limiting
mesh sizes for household nets to 5 mm. Nets with larger
openings can trap small birds, bats and possums, causing injuries or
starvation. To minimise these risks, follow these guidelines:

Use wildlife‑friendly nets: Choose nets with mesh no larger than
5 mm for household applications. Even in commercial settings, smaller
meshes reduce the likelihood of entanglement. Haverford’s Wildlife
Safe Diamond net is an example of a wildlife‑friendly product.
Install correctly: Keep nets taut and ensure edges are secured at
the ground or structure. Slack nets provide openings where animals can
enter and become trapped.
Remove nets when not needed: Remove temporary nets at the end of the
season to reduce the chance of wildlife encountering them.
Dispose of old nets responsibly: When nets reach the end of their
life, cut them into small pieces before disposal to prevent
entanglement in landfill or recycling facilities.

Besides protecting wildlife, netting reduces the need for pesticides, which
benefits pollinators and other beneficial insects. In vineyards and
orchards, nets can replace or reduce the use of sonic cannons and
reflective tapes, decreasing noise pollution. Netting also contributes to
sustainability by lowering water consumption and energy use in fruit
production.

On the downside, producing synthetic nets consumes resources and generates
plastic waste when nets are discarded. Choosing durable nets with long
warranties, such as those with 10‑year UV warranties, helps
reduce turnover. Some manufacturers are experimenting with biodegradable
materials, but these are not yet widely available. Users can extend the
life of nets through proper storage and maintenance to minimise their
environmental footprint.

9 Future trends and innovations

The bird netting industry continues to evolve as growers demand products
that are more durable, environmentally friendly and versatile. Several
trends are emerging:

Biodegradable nets: Researchers are exploring biodegradable polymers
and plant‑based fibres to reduce plastic waste. While such materials
currently lack the longevity of polyethylene or polypropylene, advances
in coatings and UV stabilisation may make biodegradable nets viable for
short‑term applications.
Smart nets: Sensors embedded in nets could monitor tension, detect
holes or tears, and alert growers when maintenance is required.
Combined with drones or automated applicators, smart nets could
revolutionise installation and management.
Multi‑functional nets: Some manufacturers, like Haverford with its
Cross Weave net, already combine bird exclusion with hail protection
and fire retardancy. Future nets may integrate
insect exclusion or even shading and temperature control. For example,
insect netting with very small meshes could reduce pesticide use.
Improved installation equipment: Companies such as Drape Net offer
applicators like Net Wizz to ease deployment. Innovations in
mechanised netting machines could reduce labour costs for large
orchards.
Recycling programmes: As awareness of plastic waste grows, more
suppliers may introduce take‑back schemes to recycle old nets. Closing
the loop could reduce environmental impacts and create a source of
recycled material for new products.

Growers and gardeners should keep an eye on these trends when planning
future net purchases. Investing in quality nets now does not preclude
upgrading later if more sustainable options become available.

Finally

Bird netting is an essential tool for protecting crops, livestock and
property from avian and bat damage in Australia. A vast array of nets is
available, from lightweight extruded sheets for backyard vegetable plots to
heavy duty, 9‑ply nets capable of stopping cockatoos and pigeons in
industrial settings. Structured canopy systems offer water savings and
improved fruit quality but require careful design and significant
investment. Recent legislation in Victoria illustrates the growing
importance of wildlife welfare and the need for humane, small‑mesh nets.

In comparing products, consider mesh size, weight, ply, UV treatment,
colour and warranty. Look for suppliers that provide detailed
specifications, support and compliance with regulations. Tables and charts
in this guide summarise key features of representative nets and show how
weight and mesh size relate. Case studies demonstrate that high‑quality
nets can pay for themselves quickly by increasing yield and reducing
expenses. As technologies advance, netting will become even more
versatile, offering greater protection with less environmental impact.

Ultimately, the choice of net depends on your specific needs: the type of
crop, the pests you face, local climate, budget and regulatory
constraints. Armed with the information in this comprehensive guide, you
can make informed decisions to safeguard your harvest, respect wildlife
and support sustainable agriculture in Australia.

References:

https://www.pestrol.com.au/shop/pest-control-solutions/bird-netting

https://www.queenslandcountrylife.com.au/story/3570123/aust-shade-tech-leaders

https://www.treefruit.com.au/orchard/canopies/permanent-structures/92-netpro-protective-canopies

https://www.essentialpestsolutions.com.au/orchard-netting

Bird Netting – Extruded

Wildlife Safe 5mm Diamond Bird Netting

https://eyouagro.com/landfaqs/overhead-bird-netting

https://www.treefruit.com.au/orchard/canopies/permanent-structures/92-netpro-protective-canopies

Bird Netting – Extruded

Cross Weave 105GSM Bird Netting with Fire Retardant

https://eyouagro.com/landfaqs/overhead-bird-netting