However, there are several ways farmers can reduce this threat. Localized, directed pesticide application reduces the exposure to birds using field edges and hedgerows. In addition, carefully controlled application reduces costs. When possible, application should be timed to avoid periods of peak nesting activities, which typically occur between May and August. Farmers can also consider birds their allies in pest management because they provide free pest control services by feeding huge quantities of insects to their voracious young.
Many farmers manage the land surrounding their fields for timber.
Mature stands of forest are good for some bird species, such as thrushes, vireos, and warblers, and areas that are harvested for timber are productive for other birds, such as bluebirds, woodpeckers, nuthatches, titmice, and chickadees. These birds are cavity-nesters and use large, dead snags left after timber harvest for nesting sites. As cut areas begin to regrow, new saplings provide nest sites for many cup-nesting species, like grosbeaks and chats. Farmers also can help birds by allowing biologists access to their land for bird research. The more knowledge that is gained, the more effectively these animals can be protected and conserved.