Loss of flower buds and leaf and shoot damage through bird damage in spring can be catastrophic for kiwifruit growers. And it can happen very quickly. Prevention with bird repellent Flock-Off is the best approach.
Proactive approach protects buds, leaves and shoots
Loss of flower buds and leaf and shoot damage through bird damage in spring can be catastrophic for kiwifruit growers. And it can happen very quickly. UPL NZ Ltd Regional Sales Manager Upper North Island Pieter Van Der Westhuizen says prevention is the best approach.
He says new kiwifruit buds often appear at a time when birds have limited food resources, so birds will take advantage of this newly emerging food source. “Birds are opportunistic feeders. Ultimately, if they pick off the buds, that’s all the growth for that year gone.”
This strips valuable growth and future yield from kiwifruit vines, resulting in financial losses to growers. Pieter says in areas with high bird pressure, the consequences can be severe. He says vine location can also play a part, with blocks close to bird habitats such as native bush, often especially vulnerable. “Damage is also usually highest near shelterbelts and other roosting sites. What growers want is for the birds to leave the orchard and find something else to eat.” He says Flock-Off is an effective but sustainable re-set for the birds’ feeding behaviour.
Irritates birds, but doesn't harm
Flock-Off is a proven, non-toxic option to repel birds. It works by irritating the birds’ sense of taste and smell. But, Pieter says, birds are not harmed. The active ingredient methyl-anthranilate, which occurs naturally in a range of flowers and grapes, stimulates the trigeminal sensory system in the bird’s beak, eyes, and throat. Although most animals possess these nerves, only birds react negatively to this product.
Birds, exposed to Flock-Off rapidly develop a conditioned response to avoid treated crops. However, re-application is essential. Pieter explains when the resident bird population leaves the area, it creates space for new birds to populate. “You need to deter new populations with repeat applications if needed.”
Regular monitoring key
Typically, Flock-Off gives up to 1-2 weeks’ control, depending on weather conditions and vine growth. New growth is not protected, so re-application at 7 to 10 days may be required if bird pressure continues. Regular monitoring is also highly recommended.
Birds may be observed in the area for 24-48 hours after treatment but will then generally leave the area. New flocks entering the treated area within 10 days will move on once the population has been exposed to Flock-Off.
The level of Flock-Off repellence may vary, depending on species, but it has proven to be highly effective on the usual bird species found in kiwifruit orchards.
For more information on how to best protect your kiwibuds from birds, click here: Flock-Off.
