Birds in the Vineyard

Responsibly-farmed vineyards can provide significant ecosystems services including providing much needed wildlife habitat for a vast array of species. NVG works with local universities and researches to develop best practices programs that promote protection of wildlife and preservation of biodiversity. 

Did you know birds are farm friends and act as environmentally-friendly pest control?
Greater diversity of bird species present in vineyards can lead to less damage from pests, greater yields, and higher quality fruit. Here are the pros and cons to birds in the vineyard:

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Benefits of Birds in the Vineyard

What kinds of birds should growers welcome into the vineyard?
Recent studies show that greater diversity of the following avian species in vineyards results in reduction of damage from grapevine pests:

• Insectivores
• Birds that do not eat fruit
• Cavity nesting species whose numbers can be increased with the addition of specialized bird boxes
• Birds of prey

Beneficial species found in Napa County:

• Western bluebird
• House wren
• Tree swallows
• Western king bird
• Black phoebe
• Barn owls
• Red tail hawks and other raptors

Methods for attracting beneficial birds to the vineyard:

• Bird boxes built specifically for certain species
• Tall perches particularly for raptors
• Hiring raptor services

Additional Resources

• Wild Farm Alliance's Benefits of Birds on the Farm
• Sara M. Kross: Publications & Presentations on Birds in Vineyard Settings
• Establishing songbird nest boxes increased avian insectivores and reduced herbivorous arthropods in a Californian vineyard, USA
• UC IPM Guidelines - Birds in Vineyards

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Issues with Birds in the Vineyard

Unfortunately, not all birds are beneficial in the vineyard setting. Birds can also be pests, but there are various forms of deterrents to protect your fruit from bird damage.

Which kinds of birds should growers discourage from entering vineyards?

• Flocking birds
• Birds that eat fruit

Local species of birds that could cause damage to vineyards:

• Starlings
• Blackbirds
• Cedar waxwings
• House finches
• Wild turkeys

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NVG recommended guidelines for bird deterrents and proper use:

• Always comply with County regulations and standards, including Napa County's newly adopted Customs & Standards for Operations of Propane Cannons
• Bird deterrents should only be used in cases where protection of an agricultural crop is needed to avoid damage
• Always adhere to manufacturer instructions for effective use
• Understand that few studies have been conducted that have tested the effectiveness of various types of bird deterrents
• It used incorrectly, birds can adapt to deterrents in as little as two weeks
• It’s recommended that growers do a cost-benefit analysis prior to investing in bird deterrent infrastructure
• It’s important to remember that not all wildlife is bad for the vineyard! A healthy, whole ecosystem approach that includes wildlife protections contributes positively to grape quality.
• Most of these bird species are federally protected, and it is required that growers get depredation permits to take any action that could harm those birds or their nests. Game species, such as turkeys are also protected under a different set of laws. It is, therefore, highly recommended that growers consult with their local Ag Commissioners office when considering how to deal with birds as pests. 

Falconry
Birds of Prey
Pros:

• Humane, natural approach
• Has been proven effective

Cons:

• May not be as effective on large-scale properties
• Very costly

Physical Barriers
Netting
Pros:

• Effective at protecting fruit
• Birds less likely to adapt or learn to get around netting

Cons: 

• Higher cost for installment than other deterrent techniques
• Takes more time and labor to install

Noise Deterrent Tactics
​Dogs
Pros:

• Humane, natural approach
• Has been proven effective

Cons:

• May not be as effective on large-scale properties

Cannons
Pros:

• Lower cost to set up and install
• Effective with proper use

Cons:

• If improperly used, birds may adapt quickly to scaring methods leading to lower rates of effectiveness
• If birds adapt, they return with increased energy demand and eat more
• If improperly used, scare tactics could become subject to County enforcement measures

Visual Scaring Techniques
Some basic visual scaring techniques include:

• Scarecrows
• Flags & "dancers"

New Technologies
Lasers

• No noise
• Scares birds with green lasers at regular intervals across

Ultrasonics

• Frequencies below human range may be less likely to disturb neighbors

Additional Resources

• UC Davis - How to Manage Birds as Pests
• EPA Environmental Noise Guidelines - Bird Scaring Devices
• UC IPM Guidelines - Birds in Vineyards​