Updated 12/21
We offer three brand selections of mist nets:
Click here for Avinet (USA) mist nets.
Click here for Japanese mist nets.
Click here for Ecotone mist nets.
If you aren't sure what you're looking for, take a look at the tables below to help you compare the nets that we have available. Don't see what you are looking for? Let us know! Special orders can be accommodated with advance notice.
Avinet mist nets are made with care by our team of experienced net makers. Our production methods ensure that nets of the same design are made to the same specifications by different production staff. While we appreciate that customers value the individuals of our team and sometimes request that their nets be made by a specific team member we cannot guarantee that we can meet such requests. Avinet reserves the right to apply a fee of up to 20% for special requests and customizations.
What mesh size should I use?
24mm (1") x 70/2 denier/ply
This is the smallest standard mesh size, usually used only for hummingbirds. Some banders prefer this size for capturing kinglets and the smallest wood warblers, but birds even as small as Song Sparrows will sometimes bounce out of this net; species that take sizes larger than 0 or 0A are best captured with a larger size mesh.
30/32mm (1 1/4") x 70/2 or 110/2 denier/ply
This net works well at capturing typical wood warblers, wrens, smaller sparrows (Chipping, Field, etc.). Basically, it will capture birds as large as Northern Cardinals, but it works best for birds that take sizes 0 and 1.
38/36mm (1 1/2") x 70/2 or 110/2 denier/ply
36mm and 38mm mesh is the "all-purpose" size for banders. Although hummingbirds and kinglets may slip through this mesh, with enough bag it will catch wood warblers and sparrows, plus most birds that take 1A or 1B band sizes.
60/61mm (~2-1/2") x 110/2 or 210/2 denier/ply
This net is ideal for large thrushes, Northern saw-whet owl, American kestrel, and other birds of a similar weight and dimension. Birds the size of chickadees and wood warblers can slip through almost without stopping. In general, this size works well with birds that wear band sizes 2 through 5.
90/100mm (3 1/2"-3.9") x 210/2 or 210/4 denier/ply
This size is best for small to medium raptors, such as sharp-shinned hawks, peregrine falcons, and medium sized owls. A thrush-sized bird can likely slip through without stopping.
121/127mm (4.7-5") x 210/4 denier/ply
This mesh size is best for the largest birds that are capturable in a mist net. Large raptors, large ducks, etc.
What are the differences between nylon and polyester mist nets?
It depends on the climate of your mist netting site. Polyester is a little bit softer and has a little less elasticity than nylon, and performs better in wet and humid climates. Nylon can be just as durable as polyester, but performs better in regards to maintaining tension in dry, well-aerated sites. Overall, there is are no long term studies that we have conducted examining durability of polyester and nylon nets side by side, and every researcher seems to have a different preference of material. If you have questions about your particular site, please feel free to consult us for advice.
What are the differences between Japanese, Avinet, and Ecotone mist nets?
- Japanese mist nets are easily distinguished by the white fabric fixture connecting the loops with the netting, as well as white loops on the top trammel. They are a standard black nylon 4-shelf net (there are a few exceptions).
- Japanese nets are made with the same mesh netting material as Avinet mist nets.
- Japanese nets have slightly thicker trammel lines than Avinet nets.
- Japanese nets are tethered just on the top trammel line.
- Avinet and Ecotone nets are tethered on both the top and bottom trammel lines.
- Avinet nets have metal rings connecting to the loops, with black/blue shrink wrapped loops.
- Many Ecotone nets have 5 shelves.
- Ecotone nets are finished with a small metal piece on the loops.
- Japanese nets tend to appear slightly longer than Avinet nets, about 3-6" on average. This is because Avinet nets are made under very taut tension, so when pulled to their maximum tension, their designated length measures exactly. Japanese nets measure out to their designated length when pulled to their "natural" tension, the kind of tension you would have them when erected for use, thus making them *technically* slightly longer than their designated length when stretched to the maximum.
If you aren't sure what to purchase, many people like to try purchasing 2 or 3 of the brands available and assess them based on the features they like from each.
Mist Net Terminology 101
There are a lot of strange words used to describe the features of mist nets. What do they all mean?
Trammel: The cording that runs horizontally along the net to create the shelves or pockets.
Shelf: The baggy netting between trammels which is the space where birds fly in and get caught.
Tether: The interval points at which trammel lines are tied along the length of the net to prevent netting from bunching towards either end of the net.
Mesh: The designation of the size of the opening in a given net and defined as one-half of the perimeter of one of the mesh squares of the net. This distance can best be measured by stretching a mesh square, measuring one of the four sides, and multiplying by 2= designated mesh size. Example: One side of the mesh square reads as 18mm. 18mm x 2 = 36mm mesh.
Denier: The term used in the textile industry to denote the fineness of a given thread (or yarn), defined as the weight in grams of 9,000 meters of yarn. Thus, 70 denier yarn weighs 70 grams per 9,000 meters. The lower the denier, the lighter and more fragile the yarn is.
Ply: The number of individual strands of yarn used in a twisted strand of netting. Generally, mist nets are either 2-ply (most typical) or 4-ply (if they are extra heavy mesh).
Below is helpful diagram:
Storage and Care
Proper care of a mist net is crucial for its longevity. There two main factors that affect the life of mist nets over time: sun exposure and moisture. The most destructive in short period of time is moisture, whereas sun exposure is longer term. When taking down a net, it is important to make sure that the net is completely dry. Bird researchers often will reuse the bag that the net comes in (Avinet brand) or use a plastic grocery bag. Bat researchers will often use something else because of USFWS protocol. Nets stored in plastic when not completely dry are at risk of developing mildew, which compromises the integrity of the mesh and trammel lines. Store your nets in a dry area, and avoid storing them in an area that can be infiltrated by rodents, as they will quickly destroy a mist net.
Our Mist Net Offerings
Avinet mist nets are made in our facility here in Portland, Maine, USA. Their handmade quality, durability, and coveted brand name make them a top choice and top seller. Avinet nets are a standardized 4-shelf net with tethering on the top and bottom trammels, and have a clean design with a metal ring connecting the netting and the loops. Production times may vary by order and time of year, so if you have immediate needs, please contact us prior to placing an order to see what our options are.
30mm Mesh Size (PQ, TQ)
Product Code |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length(meters) |
PQ06 |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
PQ09 |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
PQ12 |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
PQ18 |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
TQ06 |
Polyester |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
TQ09 |
Polyester |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
TQ12 |
Polyester |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
TQ18 |
Polyester |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
We also offer the following customs lengths by request: 1.5m, 1.8m, 2m, 2.6m, 3m, and 4m. Please send us a message for pricing! 38mm Mesh Size - TH (For birds)
Product Code |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
TH02 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
2m |
TH04 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
4m |
TH06 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
TH09 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
TH12 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
TH18 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
38mm Mesh Size - TB (For bats, has a smaller shelf for less tangling and more tension)
Product Code |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
TB02 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
2.6m |
TB04 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
4m |
TB06 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
TB09 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
TB12 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
TB18 |
Polyester |
75/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
We also offer the following customs lengths by request: 1.5m, 2m, 3m, 5m, 7m, 8m, 10m, 11m, 14m, and 15m.
38mm Mesh Size Special Use Nets
Product Code |
Specs |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
THX06 |
Half net or puddle net, ideal for low flyers |
Polyester |
75/2 |
2 |
1m |
6m |
THX12 |
Half net or puddle net, ideal for low flyers |
Polyester |
75/2 |
2 |
1m |
12m |
DEMO-NET |
Use for educational demonstrations |
Polyester |
75/2 |
2 |
.75m |
1.8m |
CAN-TH06 |
Canopy net for slingshot method net installation |
Polyester |
75/2 |
6 |
6m |
3m |
CAN-TH12 |
Canopy net for slingshot method net installation |
Polyester |
75/2 |
12 |
12m |
3m |
60mm Mesh Size - RT, CT
Product Code |
Material |
Denier/ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
RT06 |
Nylon |
110/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
RT09 |
Nylon |
110/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
RT12 |
Nylon |
110/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
RT18 |
Nylon |
110/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
CT06 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
CT09 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
CT12 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
CT18 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
100mm Mesh Size - HF, DF5
Product Code |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
HF06 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
HF09 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
HF12 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
HF18 |
Nylon |
210/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
DF506 |
Nylon |
210/4 |
5 |
3m |
6m |
DF509 |
Nylon |
210/4 |
5 |
3m |
9m |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dho Gazas - Plain, rectangular framed nets with no shelves used in raptor capture.
Product Code |
Material |
Mesh Size |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
DG4X4 |
nylon |
100mm |
210/4 |
0 |
1.2m |
1.2m |
DG4x6 |
Nylon |
100mm |
210/4 |
0 |
1.2m |
1.8m |
Custom Dho Gazas can be made to your specifications! Send us a message! |
|
|
|
127mm Mesh - DV
Product Code |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
DV06 |
Nylon |
210/4 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
DV09 |
Nylon |
210/4 |
4 |
2.6m |
9m |
DV12 |
Nylon |
210/4 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
DV18 |
Nylon |
210/4 |
4 |
2.6m |
18m |
Japanese mist nets are another great option. These are the trusty nets historically sold by AFO. Japanese nets are preferred by MAPS station as they are workhorse nets and are a staple of many banding stations worldwide.
Mesh Sizes, Materials, and Lengths available:
Product Code |
Mesh Size |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
NET-GTX |
24mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
NET-FTX |
24mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
NET-JTX |
30mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
NET-HTX |
30mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
NET-DTX |
36mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
NET-PTX |
36mm |
Polyester |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
6m |
NET-ATX |
36mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
NET-KTX |
36mm |
Polyester |
70/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
NET-CTX |
61mm |
Nylon |
110/2 |
4 |
2.6m |
12m |
NET-ETX |
121mm |
Nylon |
210/4 |
2 |
2.6m |
12m |
Ecotone mist nets are imported from Poland. Ecotone nets have a different mesh sizing system, and many models have the option of 5 shelves instead of the typical 4. Monofilament nets are unique to Ecotone's line -- they are an excellent option for both birds and bats alike. They are extremely fine, delicate nets, so they require extra care in handling and use. They are an ideal choice for the study of microbat species.
Monofilament Mesh sizes, materials, and lengths available:
Product code |
Mesh Size |
Material |
Denier/Ply |
Shelves |
Height |
Length |
M14/03 |
28mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
3m |
M14/06 |
28mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
6m |
M14/09 |
28mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
9m |
M14/12 |
28mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
12m |
M14/15 |
28mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
15m |
M14/18 |
28mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
18m |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
M20/03 |
40mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
3m |
M20/06 |
40mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
6m |
M20/09 |
40mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
9m |
M20/12 |
40mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
12m |
M20/15 |
40mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
15m |
M20/18 |
40mm |
Monofilament |
.08mm |
4 |
2.4m |
18m |
All other nets (subject to availability):
716/03 |
32mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
3m |
1016/06 |
32mm |
Nylon |
110/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
6m |
716/07 |
32mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
7m |
716/07-P |
32mm |
Polyester |
70/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
7m |
716/09 |
32mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
9m |
716/09-P |
32mm |
Polyester |
70/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
9m |
1016/10 |
32mm |
Nylon |
110/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
10m |
716/12-P |
32mm |
Polyester |
70/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
12m |
1016/12 |
32mm |
Nylon |
110/2 |
5 |
2.5m |
12m |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1019/12 |
38mm |
Nylon |
110/2 |
5 |
3m |
12m |
719/12 |
38mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
5 |
3m |
18m |
1019/18 |
38mm |
Nylon |
110/2 |
5 |
3m |
18m |
2019/12 |
38mm |
Nylon |
210/3 |
3 |
2.1m |
12m |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
730/10 |
60mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
3.2m |
10m |
1030/12 |
60mm |
Nylon |
110/2 |
4 |
3.2m |
12m |
730/12 |
60mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
3.2m |
12m |
730/15 |
60mm |
Nylon |
70/2 |
4 |
3.2m |
12m |