Birds can cause a lot of damage to crops, both by eating them and roosting in trees or fields. In the United States, this amounts to around US$189 million in fruit crop loss and US$47 billion in commercial grain crop loss each year.
The good news is that there are several effective methods for controlling bird populations. Here are some of the most popular methods that farmers and ranchers are using today.
1. Food Deprivation MethodsÂ
One of the most common agriculture bird control methods is food deprivation. This method involves making sure that food sources are not available to birds on your property. This can be done by sealing up garbage cans, removing standing water, and cleaning up any spilled seed or grain.
2. Chemical RepellentsÂ
Another popular method of agricultural bird control is the use of chemical repellents. There are several products on the market that contain chemicals designed to repel birds. These products can be sprayed on crops, buildings, and other areas where you don’t want birds to go.
3. Visual DeterrentsÂ
Visual deterrents are another popular method of agricultural bird control. Visual deterrents work by making an area less attractive to birds. This can be done in various ways, such as by hanging streamers or flashing lights in trees or using scarecrows or plastic owls in fields. The key is to make sure that the visual deterrents are constantly changing so that birds don’t get used to them and start ignoring them.
4. Audio DeterrentsÂ
Audio deterrents are another type of bird control that can be effective in some situations. Audio deterrents work by emitting sounds that birds find unpleasant or disturbing. There are a number of different types of audio deterrents on the market, including devices that emit sounds like predators or devices that play recordings of distress calls. Audio deterrents can be a good option if other methods haven’t worked or you only need short-term protection from birds.
5. Trapping and CullingÂ
Trapping and culling are more extreme forms of bird control that should only be used as a last resort. Trapping involves setting up traps baited with food or water to capture birds alive so that they can be released elsewhere. Culling involves killing the birds outright, either by shooting them or using poison bait traps. Trapping and culling should only be done by trained professionals and with all necessary permits in place; it’s also important to consider the regulations in your area before deciding to pursue this option.Â
6. Bird Netting
Bird netting is an effective and humane method of agricultural bird control. By creating a physical barrier, bird netting prevents birds from accessing crops and causing damage. Bird netting is also an environmentally friendly alternative to toxic pesticides.
Bird netting is a type of fencing made from polypropylene or polyethylene. The netting is typically placed over crops or trees and can be adjusted to fit the farmer’s specific needs. While bird netting may be an effective way to control agricultural pests, it also has drawbacks. The netting can be expensive and difficult to remove once it has been placed over an area.Â
7. Landscaping
While pesticides are one of the most common methods of controlling agricultural pests, they can be harmful to the environment and pose a risk to human health. An alternative agricultural bird control approach is using landscaping techniques to create an inhospitable environment for birds.
For example, planting dense hedges can make it difficult for birds to land and take off, while long rows of grass or prickly plants can deter them from venturing into crop fields. By employing these simple landscaping strategies, farmers can effectively control bird populations without resorting to dangerous chemicals.
8. Falconry
Falconry is an ancient art that has been used for centuries to control pests and protect crops. This time-honored tradition is being revived to help farmers protect their crops from damaging birds. Falconry allows farmers to target specific birds causing problems without harming other wildlife or the environment. In addition, falconers can train their birds to target only the problem birds, making it an efficient and effective pest control method.
9. Professional Pest Control
In some cases, it may be necessary to bring in a professional pest control company to address serious bird problems. Professional pest control experts can assess the situation and recommend an effective method of bird control. Pest control companies have access to specialized equipment, such as traps and sprays, that can help eliminate or reduce the presence of problematic birds on your property. They can also provide advice on how to prevent future problems from occurring.
Overall, there are a variety of popular agricultural bird control methods that are worth implementing. With the right approach and some patience, you can effectively deter birds from entering your fields and damaging your crops. Choosing the best solution for your specific situation will help ensure that your birds remain where they belong.Â
