WO2003059058A1

WO2003059058A1 - Bird control device

Info

Publication number: WO2003059058A1
Application number: PCT/GB2002/005783
Authority: WO
Inventors: Allan Davie
Original assignee: Robop Limited
Priority date: 2001-12-24
Filing date: 2002-12-19
Publication date: 2003-07-24
Also published as: GB2398472B; AU2002352456A1; GB2398472A; GB0414152D0

Abstract

A bird control device, which has the appearance of a bird of prey, is disclosed. The device has various moveable parts and a synthetic bird call which can be remotely activated to animate the device and to simulate the behaviour of a real bird. In a preferred arrangement remote activation of the bird, as well as remote monitoring, is performed using a WAP enabled mobile phone.

Description

BIRD CONTROL DEVICE

The present invention relates to a device and method of deterring birds. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to an animatable device having the appearance of a bird of prey for deterring pest bird species from resting, nesting and roosting and the like.

Pest animals such as pigeons nest or roost normally in locations which provide shelter from the elements, such locations including buildings, bridges and electricity pylons and the like. However, heavy annual costs are incurred to clean up pigeon droppings on or around these locations to reduce what is a definite health hazard.

Various methods are available to prevent pigeons in particular from roosting in locations where they are undesired, and usually require installing a physical barrier device. For example, anti-roosting spikes may be fitted to a building or the like, but are unsightly and are required to be fitted to every potential roosting site. Additionally, anti-roosting wires may be fitted to roosting sites such as ledges on buildings to prevent pest bird species from landing. Anti-roosting wires include thin wires extended between support posts which are either drilled into the masonry or fixed in place with an adhesive such as mastic. Although anti-roosting wires are less visible than spikes, they are usually more time consuming to install. Another available method involves fitting netting to problem areas which usually requires skilled installation and severely restricts access to the area for repair, cleaning etc. Furthermore, the netting is highly visible, detracting from possible attractive architectural features .

It is therefore an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages .

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a bird control device, said device comprising: a housing having the appearance of a bird, at least one portion of said housing being moveable to simulate movement of said creature; at least one drive means disposed within said housing for moving said at least one portion of said bird control device; and drive control means coupled to the drive means for selectively activating and controlling said at least one drive means; wherein the drive control means is arranged to move said at least one portion in a manner, to simulate movement of said bird.

Preferably, the drive control means is programmable to move said at least one portion of the housing in a predetermined manner to provide said simulated movement.

Preferably, the bird control device ("the device") is for use in deterring pest species of birds, such as pigeons, for example, from resting, nesting and roosting on buildings, bridges and pylons and the like.

Thus, in use, the device would be strategically positioned in an area or location where pest bird species, such as those noted above, cause problems such that motion of the bird control device deters said pest bird species. Such locations, in the case of pigeons, for example, include buildings, bridges and electricity pylons and the like.

Preferably, the device has the appearance of a bird of prey, said device having a head portion, a body portion, wing portions and a feet portion. The device may have the. appearance of a hawk such as a peregrine falcon, for example .

Alternatively, where the device is not required for a deterrent purpose, it may have the appearance of. a grouse, for example.

Preferably, the device includes a plurality of drive means . Preferably also, the head portion, the body portion and the wing portions are each coupled to a respective drive means .

The drive means are adapted to cause the head, body and wing portions to move in a realistic manner.

Preferably, the drive means associated with the head portion causes the head portion to rotate on the body portion. Conveniently, the range of rotational motion of the head portion is at least 180 degrees.

Preferably, the drive means associated with the body portion causes the body portion to tilt on the feet portion in a forwards and backwards motion.

Preferably, the drive means associated with the wing portions causes the wings to move to mimic a flapping motion.

Preferably, the drive means are adapted to move the head, body and wing portions by varying amounts and speeds.

Preferably, the drive means are servomechanisms .

Alternatively, the drive means may be stepper motors.

Preferably, the device is powered by an electrical power supply.

Preferably, the power source is an internal power source which may be a battery or a plurality of batteries, such as nickel-hydride batteries, for example. Advantageously, the batteries may be rechargeable, preferably charged using a solar device positioned in proximity to the pest control device, or alternatively attached to an outer surface of the device. The batteries may alternatively be charged by a mains power source which may require the batteries to be removed from the device. To achieve this, the device is preferably strategically positioned so that the batteries can be easily accessed and maintained. In a preferred embodiment, five 6 volt nickel- hydride batteries provide the required energy to operate the device .

Alternatively, the power source may be a mains power source, supplied to the device from a remote position via a power cable, for example. This would be particularly advantageous where the device is located in proximity to a building, where mains power supply is readily available. Conveniently, the device further comprises a base unit which is adapted for mounting the device in a required location.

The base unit may be adapted to be mounted on at least one cable or the like which extends between at least two support structures . The support structures may be buildings. Alternatively, the support structures may be telegraph poles, electricity pylons or bridge support struts or pillars.

To allow the device to be mounted on a cable, the base unit may comprise at least one throughbore, through which the cable passes, wherein the base unit may be fixed to the cable by use of at least one grub screw, for example.

Alternatively, the base unit may comprise at least one channel on the base unit outer surface which receives the cable. The base unit may be fixed to the cable by a grub screw, for example. This arrangement would allow the device to be mounted on an existing cable without having to feed a free end of the cable through the base unit.

To assist in retaining the device in an upright position while located on a cable, the base unit may further comprise a pendulous balance weight which extends below the cable.

In an alternative embodiment, the base unit may comprise two throughbores or channels which are adapted to receive respective individual cables which would allow the device to be retained in an upright position. The cables may be horizontally spaced or alternatively, vertically spaced.

The base unit may include means for moving the device along a cable or cables upon which it is mounted. For example, the base unit may comprise adjacent rollers, between which rollers a cable passes, wherein the rollers preferably pinch diametrically opposed surfaces of the cable such that when at least one of the rollers is rotated, by an electric motor or the like, the base unit and device are moved along the cable. This arrangement would require the cable to be free from any grub screws or other device which may lock the base unit in a fixed position on the cable.

Alternatively, the device may be locked in a fixed position on the cable and the cable may be moved via mechanically driven pulley wheels or reels located at at least one of the cable support structures, thus resulting in movement of the device .

The base unit may alternatively be adapted to be mounted on a substantially planar surface such as a horizontal or vertical surface. Alternatively, the base unit may be adapted to be mounted on a sloping surface such as sloping roof of a building or an apex thereof, while retaining the device in an upright position.

The base unit may comprise suction cups on its underside, or alternatively a magnetic base which would allow the device to be readily mounted on a ferrous metal bridge or a ferrous metal bridge support, for example. Preferably, the base unit further comprises means for allowing the device to rotate thereon. Rotation may be achieved by the provision of a turn-table operated by a motor, for example, which may be controlled by the programmable control means. Alternatively, the device may be mounted on the base unit via a bearing structure such that rotation of the device may be achieved by wind, for example. This is preferred as resting birds will instinctively direct themselves such that they are facing into the wind. Thus, the device may be designed to rotate such that the head portion of the device points into a head wind.

Advantageously, if the device is powered by batteries which are capable of being charged by a solar device, the solar device may be mounted on an elongate member which extends from the rear of the device. This would allow the device to be more readily pointed into a head wind as the solar device would create a "wind vane" effect.

In a preferred embodiment, the base unit may comprise an inner core portion and an outer sleeve portion adapted to be fitted over the inner core portion, upon which sleeve portion the device is mounted. A rolling bearing structure, such as a single row radial nylon ball bearing race, may be fitted between the upper surface of the inner core portion and an inner surface of the sleeve portion such that the sleeve may rotate relative to the inner core.

Preferably, to prevent the sleeve from being inadvertently removed from the core, at least one grub screw may be provided on the sleeve portion which engages a circumferential channel defined in the outer surface of the core portion.

Preferably, the device further comprises means for producing a speech synthesised bird call, simulating the call of the bird which the device is designed to resemble, providing an increased deterrent effect. The synthesised bird call is preferably controlled by the programmable control means. Alternatively, the synthesised bird call is controlled by a separate control means from the programmable control means .

Preferably, the device further comprises a light sensor in communication with the programmable control means such that the device may be programmed to function, for example, during daylight hours, and shut down in darkness.

Conveniently, the device may comprise an internal clock in communication with the programmable control means such that the device may be operated during preselected time periods .

Preferably, the programmable control means is a programmable processor unit which is adapted to control several drive means and other output devices, and receive input signals from a number of sensors, feedback sensors and/or switches.

Preferably, the device can be operated and programmed by wireless remote control, using a mobile phone for example. The device may include a GPS (Global Positioning Module) coupled to the processing unit for providing a position identity of the device when interrogated or at specific time intervals.

The owner can interrogate the device to determine or change various parameters. For example, to determine whether the battery power is low, to switch the voice on or off at a certain time (e.g., dawn or dusk), or to change the voice volume .

Preferably this is achieved using a mobile phone/cell phone which has WAP (Wireless Access Protocol) software to allow a user to send and receive messages from the bird. Preferably the WAP browser has a J2ME (Java 2 Mobile Equipment) program for providing wireless connectivity with the bird. Advantageously the J2ME program is low power and can be incorporated in to any WAP enable mobile telephone. This provides a bidirectional communication system for interrogating the bird device and for enabling control data to be sent to the bird at its remote location.

Preferably, the processor unit is capable of storing at least one, and preferably a plurality of operational program codes, which codes compiled to operate the device in a particular sequence, as required by the user. Preferably also, means are provided for selecting the required operational program code sequence stored in the processor unit. Examples of operational sequences for a bird device of the present invention are given below.

Where the device is stationary, such as when located on a ledge in^' proximity to a bridge, for example, the processor unit may be programmed to operate as follows:

(A) the light sensor and/or internal clock activates the processor at dawn, for example;

(B) the processor activates the synthesised bird call;

(C) the processor activates the drive means which animate the head, body and wing portions of the device in a manner which resembles realistic movements of a bird;

(D) throughout the day, the processor, in combination with the internal clock, causes apparent random motion of the device to simulate bird movements such as taking off, landing, feeding and cleaning and the like;

(E) the processor activates the synthesised bird call at random points throughout the day, or at points synchronised with movement of the device; and

(F) the light sensor and/or internal clock deactivates the processor at dusk, for example, shutting down the device.

Alternatively, where the device is mounted on a cable extending between two buildings, the operation sequence may be as follows:

(B) the processor activates the synthesised bird call ;

(C) the processor activates the drive means which animate the head, body and wing portions of the device in a manner which resembles realistic movements of a bird, that is, the head will rotate, the body will tilt and the wings will flap;

(E) the processor activates the synthesised bird call at random points throughout the day, or at points synchronised with movement of the device;

(F) at random points throughout the day, the processor activates the head portion to turn through 90 , and causes the device to move in the direction it faces towards one of the buildings;

(G) when the device approaches the building the processor activates the head portion to turn through 180° to face the opposite direction and move towards the other building, thus causing the bird to move between the buildings on a regular basis; and

(H) .the light sensor and/or internal clock deactivates the processor at dusk, for example, shutting down the device .

Steps (F) and (G) above may alternatively involve the processor causing the entire device to rotate to face the buildings by activating a motor driven turn-table in the base unit, for example.

Preferably the device is manufactured from a material which is resistant to corrosion. For example, the device may be manufactured of a polymeric or a fibreglass material. However, any suitable material may be used as would be selected by a person of skill in the art.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of deterring pest birds, said method comprising the steps of: providing a pest control device having the appearance of a bird of prey; providing at least one drive means for moving at least one portion of said pest control device; providing control means for selectively activating and controlling said at least one drive means; and moving said at least one portion in a manner to simulate movement of said bird of prey.

A communication system for remote wireless control of a bird control device said communication system comprising: a WAP enabled mobile telephone or cellphone; a communications module coupled to a processor in said control device; said communications module being adapted, receive signals from said cellphone to generate signals to operate said control device and to transmit signals from said control device to said cellphone at a predetermined time or in response to a signal being generated in response to an event occurring. Preferably the WAP enabled cellphone has a J2ME program stored therein for providing communication between the cellphone and the communications module.

These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures 1 and 2 show side and front views of a pest control device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 3 to 5 show the device of Figures 1 and 2 in various positions;

Figure 6 shows a base unit for use with the device of Figures 1 and 2 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 7 and 8 show base units in accordance with alternative embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a block diagram of the control circuitry of the present invention; and

Figure 10 is a view of the device of Figures 1 and 2 from behind, and

Figure 11 is a flow chart showing the steps performed by a remote control WAP enabled telephone and the bird communications module to establish a remote control connection.

Reference is first made to Figures 1 and 2 of the drawings in which there is shown side and front views of an animated bird control device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The pest control device, generally indicated by reference numeral 10, is primarily for deterring pigeons from nesting and roosting, and has the appearance of a peregrine falcon.

The device 10 is manufactured from fibreglass and has a head portion 12, a body portion 14, wing portions 16 and a feet portion 18. Disposed within the body 14 of the device 10 are three servomechanisms 20, 22, 24 coupled to a processor unit 26 for controlling the servomechanisms 20, 22, 24. Servomechanism 20 is associated with the head portion 12 and causes the head portion 12 to rotate on the body portion 14, the range of motion being greater than 180 ° .

Servomechanism 22 is associated with the wing portions 16 and causes the wings 16 to move to mimic a flapping motion.

Also disposed within the body portion 14 is a rechargeable battery pack 28 for supplying power to the pest control device 10, wherein the battery pack includes five 6 volt metal nickel-hydride batteries (9 amp hour) . In a preferred embodiment, the battery pack 28 is charged by a solar device, which will be discussed in more detail below.

Additionally, a bird call synthesiser 30 is provided in the body portion 16 and is coupled to the processor unit 26. When activated by the processor unit 26, the synthesiser 30 emits a call mimicking that of a peregrine falcon.

A light sensor 32 is provided on the device 10 and is also coupled to the processor unit 26. The light sensor 32 activates the device 10 at dawn and deactivates the device at dusk to preserve battery power.

The motion produced by the servomechanisms 20, 22, 24 can be more readily seen in Figures 3 to 5, in which the pest control device 10 is shown with its head 12, wings 16 and body 18 respectively in alternative positions to that shown in Figures 1 and 2. As shown, the head 12 rotates in the direction of arrow 34, the body 14 tilts in the direction of arrow 36, and the wings move in the direction of arrows 38.

Thus, the movement of the device 10, in combination with the synthesised bird call will prevent pigeons from roosting within the vicinity of the device 10.

Reference is now made to Figure 6 in which there is shown a base unit 40 upon which the device 10 is mounted. The base unit 40 has a substantially planar support surface 41 and includes an inner core portion 42 and an outer sleeve portion 44 which is adapted to be fitted over the inner core portion 42. For clarity, the base unit core and sleeve portions 42, 44 are shown in Figure 6 in a separated position.

To prevent the sleeve 44 from being inadvertently removed from the core 42, two grub screws 52 are provided on the sleeve, which grub screws 52 engage a circumferential channel 54 defined in the inner core.

When fitted together, the sleeve 44 is free to rotate upon the core 42. This is achieved by use of a rolling bearing structure 46 which is fitted between the inner surface 48 of the sleeve 44 and the upper surface 50 of the inner core 42. Thus, the base structure 40 will rotate in the wind providing a random motion which would increase the deterrent effect of the device 10.

An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 7 in which the device 10 is shown mounted on a base unit 60 which rotates by use of a servomechanism 62 which is coupled to processor unit 26 disposed in the body portion 14 of the device 10. This embodiment allows the device 10 to be directed at the discretion of a user.

Reference is now made to Figure 8 in which there is shown a device 10 mounted on a base unit 64 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Base unit 64 is adapted to be mounted on a cable 66 which extends between two buildings (not shown) . The base unit 64 includes a throughbore 68 through which the cable 66 passes. A grub screw 70 is provided to secure the base unit to the cable. To assist in retaining the device 10 in an upright position while located on the cable 66, the base unit has a weight 72 which is positioned so that it is located below the cable. In this embodiment, power may be supplied by a mains source via cable 74 which extends from one of the buildings to which the cable 66 is attached.

Reference is now made to Figure 9 in which there is shown a block diagram of the control circuitry 76 of the device 10. Control of the device 10 is provided by the processor unit 26 which is capable of storing a number of operational program codes which are arranged to operate the device in a particular sequence, as required by the user. A switch unit 78 is provided for selecting the required operational program code sequence stored in the processor unit 26. Coupled to an output of the processor unit 26 is the bird call synthesiser 30 and the servomechanisms 20, 22, 24 for moving the head 12, wings 16 and body 14 portions respectively. Additionally, where the base unit is of the type shown in Figure 7, servomechanism 62 is also coupled to the processor unit 26.

Coupled to an input of the processor unit 26 is light sensor 32 and also a master switch 80 for manually shutting off the device. Furthermore, an internal clock 82 is provided which allows the processor 26 to operate for particular periods of time or at specific points in the day. Also coupled to the processor unit is the battery pack 28, to which battery pack a solar panel (not shown) is attached.

Also shown connected to the processor 26 is a data communications module 85 (type Nokia 30 GSM data unit) which, as will be later described in detail, can receive messages from a WAP enabled cellphone 87 to control various bird/device functions or which can transmit wireless signals from the bird to a remote cellphone corresponding to, e.g., a low battery signal.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device 10 is provided with an access panel 84, shown in Figure 10, which is provided on the back of the body portion 14 of the device 10. The access panel 84 allows access to the operational components of the device, represented in Figure 9, for maintenance and repair. The panel is fixed in place by screws 86 and is provided with waterproof seals (not shown) to prevent moisture from penetrating into the device 10.

Reference is now made to the flow chart of Figure 11 which depicts the principal steps required for a remote WAP enabled telephone to communicate with any one of the bird control devices shown in Figures 1 to 10, the control devices, having a suitable data communications module 85 e.g., Nokia 30 GSM data unit therein coupled to the processor 26.

The cellphone 87 has a WAP browser stored therein or preferably a J2ME Java application. In step 1 the user initiates connection to the configuration WAP site or starts the J2ME configuration program. This is done by the "User" opening a "web style" WAP page by entering the URL (internet address) of the RoBop WAP site, using a WAP enabled handset . Alternatively, using a JAVA (J2ME) enabled handset, the "User" can run a previously downloaded application, similar in method to an application being run on a PC. In step 2 the mobile/cellphone network establishes connectivity to a Web Server hosting a configuration system and the Web Server authenticates the user and connects to a configuration page allowing the user to lead current settings and optionally request changes to the settings. Once the Server application has authenticated the "user" (i.e., by Username and Password or by GSM No. etc.) he/she will then be able to view the current settings of the RoBop unit by the page that is displayed on the users handset . The "User" has also the ability to change the RoBop unit's configuration settings (i.e. Volume, On/Off etc.) remotely from the handset by selecting the appropriate setting they require to alter, from the given menu. This will then take them to another page containing the available options for that particular type of setting. The "User" can then select the change they wish to make. In step 3, the new setting is then submitted to the Web Server Application, which in turn, updates the configuration database containing the RoBop unit settings information. In step 4 the change to the configuration database triggers a GSM dialler application to establish GSM data/SMS or GRPS connection to "call" the device 10 and, once connection is established to the RoBop processor 26 via the GSM communications module 85. Once a connection is established, the on-board processor receives the new configuration settings, processes them and then applies them to the unit and other registered data is extracted.

It should be noted that the embodiments hereinbefore described are merely exemplary of the present invention and various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the device may have the appearance of any bird of prey or any bird such as a grouse, for example. The device base unit which is adapted to be mounted on a cable may be capable of moving along the cable by a roller mechanism, for example, controlled by the processor unit. Alternatively, the cable upon which the device is mounted may be moved between the buildings to which the cable is attached. The battery pack may be recharged by a mains supply. The device may be operated remotely by any suitable radio frequency remote controller which may operate all functions of the device or only a selection of the functions such as the master switch or the bird call synthesiser. The data communications module may include a GPS module for identifying the location of the control device. The device and base unit may be manufactured from any suitable material as would be selected by a person of skill in the art; for example, a polymeric or elastomeric material may be used, which materials are capable of being formed into the required shape of the device relatively easily. Although the device is preferably programmable and can be programmed remotely by mobile telephone, for example, the device alternatively may have a circuit which is used to move various parts of the bird at predetermined or random intervals, such a circuit may have a timer chip to cause movements to happen at certain times or randomly without the need for a programmed memory or processor unit .

Claims

1. A bird control device, said device comprising: a housing having the appearance of a bird, at least one portion of said housing being moveable to simulate movement of said creature; at least one drive means disposed within said housing for moving said at least one portion of said bird control device; and drive control means coupled to the drive means for selectively activating and controlling said at least one drive means; wherein the drive means is arranged to move said at least one portion in a required sequence and manner to simulate movement of said bird.

2. A device as claimed in claim 1 wherein said drive control means is programmable to move said at least one portion of the bird in a predetermined manner to provide said simulated movement.

3. A device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the bird control device is for use in deterring pest species of birds, such as pigeons, for example, from resting, nesting and roosting on buildings, bridges and pylons and the like.

4. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the device has the appearance of a bird of prey, said device having a head portion, a body portion, wing portions and a feet portion.

5. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the device includes a plurality of drive means.

6. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the head portion, the body portion and the wing portions are each coupled to a respective drive means.

7. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the drive means are coupled to the head, body and wing portions to move said portions in a realistic manner.

8. A device as claimed in claim 7 wherein the drive means associated with the head portion causes the head portion to rotate on the body portion.

9. A device as claimed in claim 8 wherein the range of rotational motion of the head portion is at least 180 degrees .

10. A device as claimed in any one of claims 7, 8 or 9 wherein the drive means in association with the wing portion causes the wing to move to mimic a flapping motion.

11. A device as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein the drive means are adapted to move the head, body and wing portions by varying amounts and speeds.

12. A device as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 11 wherein the drive means are servomechanisms.

13. A device as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 11 wherein the drive means may be stepper motors .

14. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the device is powered by an electrical power supply.

15. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the electrical power supply is a battery sμpply and preferably a rechargeable battery power supply.

16. A device as claimed in claim 15 wherein said device is coupled to a solar cell for recharging said batteries.

17. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said device further comprises a base unit which is adapted for mounting the device in a required location.

18. A device as claimed in claim 15 wherein the base unit is adapted to be mounted on at least one cable or the like which extends between at least two support structure .

19. A device as claimed in claim 18 wherein the base unit has at least one throughbore, through which the cable passes, and the base unit is fixable to the cable by at least one fastener such as a grub screw.

20. A device as claimed in claim 18 wherein the base unit has at least one channel on the base unit outer surface which receives the cable and the base unit is fixable to the cable by a fastener such as a grub screw.

21. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20 wherein the base unit includes a pendulous balance weight which extends- below the cable to assist in retaining the device in an upright position while located on a cable.

22. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20 wherein the base unit has two throughbores or channels which are adapted to receive respective individual cables to allow the device to be retained in an upright position.

23. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20 wherein the base unit includes means for moving the device along a cable or cables upon which it is mounted.

24. A device as claimed in claim 23 wherein the base unit includes adjacent rollers between which rollers a cable passes wherein the rollers pinch diametrically opposed surfaces of the cable such that when at least one of the rollers is rotated, by an electric motor or the like, the base unit and device are moved along the cable .

25. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 24 wherein the base unit includes suction cups on its underside.

26. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 24 wherein the base unit includes a magnetic base to allow the device to be readily mounted on a ferrous metal bridge or a ferrous metal bridge support .

27. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 26 wherein the device is mounted on a power-driven turntable for rotating the device to orientate the device in a particular direction.

28. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 26 wherein the device is mounted on a base unit via a bearing structure such that rotation of the device to a particular orientation is achieved by wind.

29. A device as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 28 wherein the base unit comprises an inner core portion and an outer sleeve portion adapted to be fitted over the inner core portion, upon which sleeve portion the device is mounted.

30. A device as claimed in claim 29 wherein a rolling bearing structure, such as a single row radial nylon ball bearing race, is fitted between the upper surface of the inner core portion and an inner surface of the sleeve portion such that the sleeve may rotate relative to the inner core.

31. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the device further includes means for producing a speech synthesised bird call, simulating the call of the bird which the device is designed to resemble, providing an increased deterrent effect.

32. A device as claimed in claim 31 wherein the synthesised bird call is preferably controlled by the programmable control means .

33. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the device further comprises a light sensor in communication with the programmable control means such that the device is programmable to function, for example, during daylight hours, and shut down in darkness.

34. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the programmable control means is a programmable processor unit which is adapted to control several drive means and other output devices, and receive input signals from a number of sensors, feedback sensors and/or switches.

35. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the device can be operated and programmed by wireless remote control preferably using a mobile phone.

36. A device as claimed in claim 35 wherein said mobile phone/cell phone which has WAP (Wireless Access Protocol) software browser to allow a user to send and receive messages from the bird.

37. A device as claimed in claim 36 wherein the WAP browser has a J2ME (Java 2 Mobile Equipment) program for providing wireless connectivity with the bird.

38. A device as claimed in any one of claims 34 to 37 wherein the processor unit is capable of storing at least one, and preferably a plurality of operational program codes, which codes compiled to operate the device in a particular sequence, as required by the user.

39. A device as claimed in any one of claims 34 to 38 wherein means are provided for selecting a required operational program code sequence stored in the processor unit.

40. A device as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said device includes a GPS (Global Positioning Module) coupled to the processing unit for providing a position location of the device when interrogated or at specific time intervals.

41. A method of deterring pest birds, said method comprising the steps of: providing a pest control device having the appearance of a bird of prey; providing at least one drive means for moving at least one portion of said pest control device; providing drive control means for selectively activating and controlling said at least one drive means; and moving said at least one portion in a manner to simulate movement of said bird of prey.

42. A method as claimed in claim 40 including the step of programming said control means to cause said drive control means to move said at least one portion in a predetermined manner .

43 A communication system for remote wireless control of a bird control device said communication system comprising: a WAP enabled mobile telephone or cellphone; a communications module coupled to a processor in said control device; said communications module being adapted to receive signals from said cellphone to generate signals to operate said control device and to transmit signals from said control device to said cellphone at a predetermined time or in response to a signal being_, generated in response to an event occurring.

44. A ' system as claimed in claim 43 wherein the WAP enabled cellphone has a J2ME program stored therein for providing communication between the cellphone and the communications module .

45. A system as claimed in claim 43 or 44 wherein said pest control device includes a GPS (Global Positioning Module) coupled to the processing unit for providing a position location of the device when interrogated or at specific time intervals.