Control of Bird Damage Birds may cause damage on farms by attacking tree fruit and grapes during the harvest period. The potential for damage is highly dependent on the bird species and fruit involved. Starlings cause the most serious damage, but other destructive species include robins, crows, magpies, and English sparrows. A combination of control methods is usually better than a single method in reducing bird damage to tree fruits and grapes. Controls are less likely to be effective once birds have established feeding patterns in an orchard or vineyard.
Birds also become accustomed to the repeated use of scare devices over time.
Refer to the publication Bird Control for Agricultural Lands in British Columbia . Consult with local government officials to determine if the use of distress calls is regulated by noise bylaws. It requires little maintenance once installed on a structure of poles and wires above vines and trees. In addition, certain netting material can offer some hail and rain protection. Larger mesh may result in birds becoming tangled in the netting.