Mining

From a bird control perspective, the mining industry is unique.

No other sector faces such a wide variety of bird problems across so many different environments. Unlike agriculture and horticulture, mining operations are at risk from birds all year round. Once pest birds discover a reliable food or water source, they remain permanently and attract larger flocks, creating ongoing challenges for site managers.

Large sheds and warehouses commonly used in mining provide birds with exactly what they need—shelter, space and safe nesting areas. Because these structures are open and easily accessible, they often become natural habitats. Birds in these environments are more than just a nuisance; they can pose serious health and safety risks for employees, while droppings and nesting material damage equipment, contaminate surfaces and increase maintenance costs.

Protecting mine sites and equipment from birds

The most reliable and permanent way to prevent birds from roosting is the installation of bird netting. Properly installed, bird netting removes access to nesting sites and forces birds to relocate. In large mining sheds, it is often necessary to install netting both under the roof and along the walls to guarantee complete exclusion. When designed correctly, netting provides 100% bird control in these environments.

Bird netting is also widely used across other areas of the mining industry, including:

• Pond exit safety nets – providing escape protection for workers near HDPE-lined ponds.

• Pond cover nets – stopping birds and animals from accessing toxic water.

• Workshop nets – preventing birds from roosting and nesting in workshop areas.

• Conveyor nets – catching debris spills and preventing roller displacements.

• Boom nets – filtering debris before it enters pumps.

• Safety nets – used for debris catch, pallet racking and truck loading.

• Cargo cover nets – securing and covering loads on utes and trucks.

By integrating these systems, mining operators can protect equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and create a safer and more compliant workplace.

At Competitive Pest Services, we deliver customised bird control programs for mine sites across Australia. Our solutions combine durability, safety and compliance, ensuring long-term protection from pest birds in even the most challenging environments.