Written by Barbara Pleasant
June 14, 2024
A few years ago, our mature berry bushes were a peaceful haven for picking blueberries, with minimal competition from birds. That changed quickly when word spread among the local bird population that our bushes were a prime food source. We soon had an influx of berry-eating birds, including waxwings, robins, and catbirds, feasting on blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. This required me to come up with an effective strategy for protecting our crops. Over the years, new methods and insights have emerged, improving how we can keep these feathered pests at bay.
Identifying the Culprits
Using the free Merlin Bird ID app from Cornell University, I realized that berry-eating birds are far more diverse than I had imagined. There are at least a dozen species in my yard alone, many of them year-round residents. Some birds, such as robins, are notorious for damaging as many berries as they consume. While many of these birds are beautiful and beneficial, their love for berries can be problematic when it comes to preserving crops.
New Bird Deterrence Methods
A range of techniques are available to deter birds, some of which have proven effective, while others are best left to experts.
1. Lasers
In high-risk areas like airports, green lasers are used to scare birds away. However, they are not suitable for backyard use, as improper handling could result in harm to both birds and humans. For this reason, lasers should be reserved for situations where bird safety is critical, such as airfields.
2. Air Dancers
These inflatable figures, also known as “wacky waving arm flailing tube men,” have been adopted in commercial berry and corn fields to deter birds. While they can be effective, they are costly and require electricity to function. In smaller gardens, alternatives such as scare-eye balloons or reflective tape are more affordable and equally efficient.
3. Grape Kool-Aid
A surprising but effective method for deterring birds involves using grape Kool-Aid. The chemical compound methyl anthranilate, found in grape Kool-Aid, repels birds because it has a strong, unpleasant taste. Commercial bird repellents often contain similar chemicals, but Kool-Aid is an affordable, accessible alternative for home gardeners. Simply mix a packet of grape Kool-Aid with water in a spray bottle, and apply it to the plants. Repeat daily, especially after rainfall. Combining this with visual deterrents, like scarecrows or shiny objects, enhances its effectiveness.
Physical Barriers to Keep Birds Away
The most foolproof method to protect berries is through physical barriers, such as netting or screens. Early attempts with mesh bird netting led to complications, such as hummingbirds getting trapped, which made me reconsider this approach. Some gardeners in my area use chicken wire enclosures to keep both birds and squirrels away from blueberries. However, I found that lightweight insect netting didn’t fully prevent birds from accessing the plants from below.
Row Covers
A more reliable solution I adopted is a row cover system. After constructing a frame with conduit pipes, I covered the bushes with a 10-foot-wide row cover, secured with snap clips. This method has worked wonders, creating an environment where berries can ripen undisturbed by birds. The cover not only provides effective protection but also helps maintain a slightly warmer microclimate, which the berries seem to appreciate. I’ve found that this system significantly reduces the damage caused by birds, allowing me to harvest berries that are ripe and unscathed.
Conclusion
With a combination of grape Kool-Aid sprays and physical barriers like row covers, it’s possible to keep berry-loving birds at bay without harming them. These strategies ensure that the berries can ripen fully, providing a rewarding harvest that’s free from bird-related damage. By understanding the different methods and adjusting for your specific needs, you can protect your crops and enjoy the fruits of your labor—literally.