Florida vineyards and wineries can become inundated with pest birds capable of stripping an entire row of crops clean within a single afternoon. Because it’s such a common problem, we'll answer some frequently asked questions in regard to how and when to put in place measures to protect your harvest.
Will the salt air in Tampa damage the bird netting?
Salt air can damage low-quality bird netting. If the netting is made of metal or metal mesh, it can rust and corrode in response to moisture in the air.
How do we handle bird control during an outdoor winery wedding?
Ideally, bird deterrence via falconry and/or targeted static deterrence would have been happening before the event. However, larger events like this can be managed with falconry, controlled laser, and management of the event area (such as quick removal of trash and covering of dining areas).
We are near Tampa International (TPA). Can we use lasers at our winery?
Laser strikes are taken very seriously by airports. Lasers with higher ranges require specific permitting to use, especially in such close proximity to a major airport.
Is it true that boat-tailed grackles are “smarter” than common grackles found at inland vineyards?
Yes. Boat-tailed grackles are smarter and also far more aggressive and persistent than common grackles. This means they’re generally less responsive to human attempts to scare them away.
Can we use pyrotechnics near a residential neighborhood?
No, you'll likely not be able to use pyrotechnics in an urban environment. It is recommended to contact professionals before considering the use of pyrotechnics, but note that they are often not permitted within proximity to residential neighborhoods.
Are chemical repellants safe and effective for vineyards?
There is a good chance that chemical repellants are neither safe nor effective. Even if they are classified as safe they will only prove effective in the short-term as birds will move on to an untreated patch.
How can we protect our outdoor tasting patio from birds without unsightly bird spikes?
Falconry can be used for larger-scale deterrence around the winery, but smaller static devices such as shock-track systems can be used for outdoor patio areas.
Do I need a permit to remove bird nests found in my vineyard trees?
Do not attempt to remove any bird nests found on the property, even if you think you are certain of the species. Removal of and tampering with bird nests are federally illegal and can come with hefty fines and prison sentencing.
Can pigeons or grackles nest inside harvesting machinery?
Oh, indeed - they can and do! Pigeons and grackles even prefer sheltered locations such as inactive machinery.
How many falconry sessions are typically needed to protect a vineyard during harvest?
It depends on the severity of the bird problem, target species, and length of harvest. Deterrence of migratory birds that target fruit during harvest may take only a few sessions, while a deep-seated issue with birds that stay in the area year-round may take numerous sessions to manage.
Is there a risk of “secondary poisoning” if we use bird baits near the winery?
Yes. Poisons ffor bird and animal control are not static; they move throughout the ecosystem to the animals that feed on birds and rodents. Poisoning can even worsen bird issues if it kills non-target species that naturally manage birds in vineyards, such as owls and other wild raptors.
Does the salt air affect electronics in automatic laser bird control units?
Yes. Salt air can corrode electronics over time, so it is critical to have a professional that can monitor, service, and prevent corrosion on or in any bird deterrence electronics.
Why is sour rot more common in Florida vineyards after bird damage?
Florida’s natural humidity allows fungus and bacteria to thrive on crops. Bird damage to grapes often exposes the softer insides of fruit to humidity that breeds bacteria, leading to infections with sour rot.
When should bird control begin before harvest?
As early as possible. The longer birds are exposed to the pressure of a trained raptor and other deterrence methods, the better the effect.
Are bird deterrents allowed near tasting rooms?
It depends on the deterrent and the placement. Perching a trained raptor, installing a shock system, or targeting netting can be effective and subtle in certain areas around tasting rooms.
What is the most cost-effective bird control method for wineries?
While static and automated systems are promising cost-wise, they alone are not entirely effective in reducing crop loss. A combination of falconry and static/automatic systems is the most effective at reducing loss of yield and ensuring long-time management of bird issues
Who can I call to help with my pest bird issues?
Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control LLC. provides wide ranging bird abatement in Florida and beyond. We employ falconry and a myriad of additional methods to get rid of pest birds including grackles, starlings, crows, and pigeons. Call us at 1.833.833.4295 for a free assessment on bird control for vineyards and wineries in Tampa Bay.
