Frequently Asked Questions

Q - What can it be installed on?

A - The BirdSpy™ Bird Detection System is designed to be installed on any make or model of tractor, and is also suitable for a variety of other machinery types such as harvesters, diggers, trucks, etc. The system automatically adapts for a 12 or 24V battery.

Q - Can the system trigger while the tractor is in use?

A - No, the BirdSpy™Bird Detection System is active only while your tractor is stopped (key off), keeping an eye out for potential bird activity during the time they are normally building nests.

Q - Does it scare the birds away?

A - Birds don't hear ultrasonic sounds, and they also get accustomed to loud noises and other scaring techniques... and those reasons make scaring them away problematic. Our approach is to let you know when birds have been entering the engine bay during times of non-use, so you can ensure the equipment is not operated until the engine bay has been checked and cleared of any nesting material.

Q - Can I install it myself?

A - The BirdSpy™ Bird Detection System is best installed by one of the approved Dealer / Installers listed on our where to buy page. A high standard of installation is necessary to ensure the system performs reliably and provides the maximum level of protection... give us a call if you're keen on doing it yourself.

Q - Will the system run my battery flat?

A - Not likely, as the BirdSpy™ Bird Detection System uses very little power and is designed to keep monitoring for long periods of no vehicle use. What's more, it keeps an eye on your battery voltage so if it does eventually get a little low (for any reason) it will "trigger" and switch off altogether. In this case you will get an alarm when you come to re-start, and you'll need to check for birds nests and perform the usual reset.

Q - How many bird sensors are required?

A - This requires an evaluation of the critical fire risk areas and what sensor placement would sufficiently cover them or the entry points to those areas. Typical tractor installations have 2 bird sensors, but in some cases 1 can be enough. Up to 10 sensors may be fitted.

Q - How can I check the system is working correctly?

A - At key off there is a 5 minute period during which you can test each sensor... simply put your hand in front of each bird sensor, check that the system beeps and make sure the sensor beam is still pointing in the right direction. Keep the face of the sensors clean. The reset sensor can also be checked by touching the ignition key against it... one beep if a reset is performed, two beeps if done already. When 5 minutes is up the system will re-arm and trigger on the next bird sensor activation.

Q - My system is triggering too often, what could be wrong?

A - If this happens check the bird sensors are secured and aligned correctly, sensing distance is adjusted correctly, and that there is nothing in the sensing path that could move and cause a false trigger. Additionally check the environment e.g. locations close to feed storage may attract rats and mice - which are also unwanted guests.

New Zealand patent 614495