Identity

A physical structural exclusion barrier utilizing fine mesh wire to isolate the flock from wild birds.

Overview

Wild Bird Netting is a critical physical isolation and structural exclusion measure. It acts as a mechanical barrier that prevents wild birds from entering poultry houses, nesting in roof spaces, or contacting feed silos and drinking water systems.

Structured Facts

Classification

Physical Isolation / Structural Exclusion. Structural biosecurity measure.

Purpose

Mitigates wild birds carrying Avian Influenza. Containment helps minimize the risk of direct or indirect disease transmission to domestic poultry.

Standard Procedures

Netting installations must cover all air inlets, exhaust fan hoods, eaves, and vents. The mechanical rule of exclusion states that the mesh aperture must be smaller than the target bird's skull. Feed spills outside the sheds must be cleaned up immediately to avoid attracting wild populations to the farm perimeter.

Vector & Pest Control

Blocks wild migratory waterfowl and passerines such as finches, sparrows, starlings, pigeons, wild songbirds, parakeets, conures, eagles, hawks, and large game birds. Also used for general rodent control.

Monitoring & Compliance

Auditors must visually inspect all netting lines monthly to check for tears, gaps, or sag points.

Advantages

Helps prevent Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease, avoiding the quarantine and depopulation of entire flocks.

Limitations

If a bird can push its head through the netting, it can gain entry. While netting prevents entry, feed spills outside the sheds can still attract wild populations if not cleaned up.

Quantitative Data

• Frequency: Monthly visual inspection
• Humidity: 316 grade stainless steel must be used in marine, coastal, or humid environments to prevent corrosion.
• Unit:
  • Maximum Mesh Size: 0.5 inch
  • Micro-Passerine / Finch Netting Aperture: 12 x 12 mm (0.5 in)
  • Standard Anti-Bird Netting Aperture: 19 x 19 mm (0.75 in)
  • Standard Biosecurity Exclusion Aperture: 25 x 25 mm (1.0 in)
  • Medium Avian Containment Aperture: 50 x 50 mm (2.0 in)
  • Large Bird & Raptor Mesh Aperture: 75 x 75 mm (3.0 in)
  • Wire Diameter Specs: 1.2 mm, 1.6 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm
  • Material Grade: 316 Stainless Steel (Coastal/Humid) or 304 Stainless Steel (Inland)

Relationships

• Diseases: Avian Influenza, Newcastle Disease
• Housing Systems: Open-sided or naturally ventilated sheds
• Management Practices: Feed and water security measures
• Government Guidelines: Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)