GROW SMART, GROW SAFE

   Animal pests >> Birds  

Songbirds are lovely to have in your yard, and many birds help control pest insects. On the other hand, some birds may eat ripening fruit or tender vegetables.

Prevent problems before they appear

Use netting. When vulnerable fruit and vegetable crops are ripening, drape netting over trees and bushes. Be sure it reaches the ground or is gathered around the trunk. Netting is very effective on crops like figs and blueberries.

Use nesting or roosting barriers. Angled barriers, screens and wire barriers make it uncomfortable for birds to nest or roost on ledges and building peaks.

Manage problems wisely

Scare them. Birds are skittish. You can scare them off with a little noise. Try aluminum pans, wind chimes, hanging flashers, flags or balloons. It’s best to move noisemakers about, so birds don’t become used to them.

Trapping can be used against non-protected birds only. Trapping native species is illegal.
Cage traps for house sparrows, domestic pigeons and starlings can be useful for reducing numbers.

Try a repellent. Methyl anthranilate, a product derived from grape skins, is registered for home use on a variety of crops.