BIRD DAMAGE TO FRUIT 



Crop damage by birds is not a new problem. However, only within the past 

 ten years has the problem been given much consideration. No one knows why there 

 has been an increase in bird depredation but one theory is that increased 

 building of homes and factories has reduced the birds' natural food supply. 

 This causes them to seek food elsewhere. Another theory offered is that in 

 addition to food reduction, many bird predators have been destroyed. Many hawks 

 and owls are destroyed needlessly, each being a predator that nature provided to 

 keep bird population in check. 



Many growers believe that increased winter feeding of birds by the public 

 is a major cause of increase in numbers of destructive species. This is un- 

 likely for the majority of species causing damage to fruit are not seed eaters 

 and they migrate each fall. 



Often it is asked if birds are beneficial. Thirty years ago the majority 

 of people would emphatically say yes. Today with our increased knowledge and 

 use of insect sprays, some would say no. When looking at an animal objectively 

 we should look at its good and bad points. When looking at birds as a group, 

 one should realize that they have good qualities. They are beneficial in con- 

 trolling insects. They have a great aesthetic value to many people and are help- 

 ful in seed dispersal. Against these good points, they are very destructive to 

 crops; they can spread disease; and they can cause disagreeable conditions with 

 their roosting habits. Still, it is only when bird numbers overpopulate their 

 habitats that they become undesirable. 



Most of our common species of birds have been accused of depredation at one 

 time or another. Ducks, orioles, starlings, robins, sparrows, tanagers, and etc. 

 all have been reported causing damage, A great deal depends upon the type of 

 crop and where it is planted in relation to surrounding habitat. In work at the 

 University of Massachusetts last summer, it was found that a great number of 

 birds are present in plantings bordering woodlots. Fewer are found in open areas. 

 It was also determined that different species cause damage in open areas than in 

 areas surrounded by cover. 



Pillaging of the fruit crop in Massachusetts last summer was primarily done 

 by robins, Baltimore orioles, starlings, and catbirds. Many other species 

 caused damage in isolated cases. Each species has different characteristics and 

 a control program designed for one might not work for another. 



To date, control measures have centered around three methods: Control by 

 scaring devices, repellents, and by the reduction of numbers. The first two 

 seem most desirable, if effective. All but a few species are protected by 

 Federal 3 aw and a program of reduction cannot be carried out under existing laws. 



Numerous scaring devices have been tried in Massachusetts but have had 

 limited success. The carbide exploder has been tried under varied conditions. 

 It makes a loud noise which is supposed to scare birds. Some growers have had 

 good results with the exploder while others have not. It often works with 

 starlings but is not effective with songbirds. Songbirds seem to learn quickly 

 that the noise is harmless and pay little or no attention to the exploder. It 

 probably has limited use in fruit plantings. 



Firecrackers have been tried often with varying success. Birds soon become 



