Birds

On many farms or orchards, bird damage is minimal and growers choose to ignore the problem or just take the loss from birds into account as a management cost. For others, problems from birds can be substantial, resulting in the consumption of or damage to large portions of the fruit crop.

The type and amount of damage caused, effective control methods, and legal protection vary among bird species. As a result, it is very important for a grower to be able to identify the birds causing damage. A number of field guides for identifying birds are available at bookstores or libraries. Listed below are the species that most often cause damage to fruit, along with a brief description of each bird and the type of damage it causes.

Summary

For best results in reducing bird damage, growers should use a variety of simultaneous techniques and start the control program before birds have established a habit of feeding on the fruit. Control is much more difficult after feeding patterns have become established. Growers also should keep records of attempted control methods and their success rates. The methods listed above are only suggestions.