Background: A Growing Urban Bird Challenge
In recent years, Oamaru has experienced a sharp increase in red-billed gull colonies. While these birds are protected, their presence in urban environments — particularly nesting on rooftops — has created significant challenges for local businesses.
The noise, droppings, smell, and debris caused by large flocks were disrupting operations, deterring customers, and creating additional maintenance costs.
For Geoff Brown, Joint Venture Operator of the new Bunnings Hardware store in Oamaru, the problem quickly escalated when a large colony settled on the 2,500m² roof of the store.“We were seriously concerned about the long-term impact on our roof, not to mention the disruption to staff and customers,” Geoff explains.
Objective: A Safe, Effective, and Compliant Solution
Geoff needed a solution that would:
• Deter the birds without harming them (in line with protected species regulations)
• Cover a large area effectively
• Be cost-efficient and require minimal ongoing maintenance
Traditional methods like netting were not practical for a roof of this size and scale.
Solution: Birdzout Automatic Laser System from Maintrac Group
Following a recommendation from a local project management specialist, Geoff contacted Phil Johnson at Birdzout — a trusted provider of bird and pest control systems.
Birdzout proposed the BIRDZOUT Automatic Laser System, a programmable, motion-based laser unit that emits a beam across the rooftop. The movement disturbs and deters birds from landing or nesting, encouraging them to relocate without causing harm.
“The concept sounded promising — but I was a little sceptical about whether it would actually work,” Geoff says.
Results: Immediate and Long-Lasting Impact
“From the moment the laser system was installed, we saw results. The seagulls circled above as usual, but didn’t land. Two and a half months later — they still haven’t come back.”
The BIRDZOUT system provided immediate and sustained relief from the seagull infestation. It delivered on all its promises, at a fraction of the cost of other laser deterrent systems Geoff had looked into.
“It’s been a very effective, low-maintenance, and affordable solution — and it’s great to have found something that works without harming the birds or interrupting our business.”
Talk to Birdzout today to see how laser bird deterrents can work on your site.
