In some vineyards, birds such as magpies, blackbirds and jays pounce on the grapes and the damage can be significant. Here are some solutions to limit the damage.
The idea is to make the area uncomfortable for the birds. Not all species react in the same way to scaring solutions. It is therefore necessary to vary the methods used.
What species most frequently attack vines?
- The blackbird
- The Jay
- The magpie
- The starling
Some information on the habits of birds to better understand and thus better prevent the damage they cause:
- It is easier to remove birds that have recently settled in. The longer you wait, the more likely they are to become attached to their "territory". Also, the presence of one group of birds on a vineyard can attract others. It is therefore wise not to delay in getting them to leave.
- The damage can vary greatly from one plot to another.
- And on a plot, the damage is rarely homogeneous. On the contrary, they are localized in certain places that the birds like.
- If a starling dormitory is located near a plot, the plot is more likely to be attacked by these birds.
- The birds usually come to feed at daybreak and late in the day.
Here are some solutions to keep birds away from vineyard plots:
1 - Programmable acoustic bird repeller
For isolated plots (no houses within 200 meters), AgriProTech has developed a range of acoustic bird repellers.
The AviTrac® range, made in France, creates an inhospitable and threatening atmosphere to repel starlings, magpies, jays.... with its different scaring signals:
- Birds of prey cries
- Distress calls of the targeted birds
- Synthesis signals
These systems are made for professional use. They are waterproof, solid and fully programmable. Their built-in rechargeable battery gives them 3 weeks autonomy.
As with other scaring solutions, we recommend moving them or changing their orientation from time to time to increase their effectiveness.
For even greater effectiveness, you can complement the AviTrac with the ManTrac visual option:
To limit the habituation effect, it is advisable to install complementary solutions such as those proposed below:
2 - Protective nets
AgriProTech offers protective nets to prevent birds from accessing the fruit.
Our tips :
- Set up the nets early enough before the fruit ripens.
- Tighten and secure the nets
- Roll up and fix the ends of the nets so that small animals (hedgehogs...) do not get caught in them.
- Check that there are no holes or passages through which birds can get in
- Check the nets regularly and release the trapped animals if necessary.
- After sensitive periods, remove the nets and store them carefully rolled up.
3 - Reflective tape
This type of holographic tape reflects light and emits a metallic sound similar to an aluminum sheet. It plays on the visual and auditory senses, it gives an impression of movement that intrigues and keeps birds away.
It can be tied directly to the branches of vines. Let strips of about one meter or less move with the wind.
This tape reinforces the effect of an acoustic repeller.
4 - Scarecrow balloons
You can install a balloon of this type to protect about 500 m² of vines. There are several types of scarecrow balloons. We recommend moving them regularly. This type of solution comes as a complement to sound repelling.
5 - Raptor shaped kite
FlyTrac® kites imitate the flight pattern of the sparrowhawk, a bird of prey very present in France.
This natural predator of many birds scares away blackbirds, jays, magpies ... but it can also attract real birds of prey, which will make the area all the more dangerous to them.
Sources / pour aller plus loin :
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/french/engineer/facts/17-030.htm
