Keeping Birds Away from Strawberries: Physical Barriers, Reflective Objects, Motion Activated Sprinklers & More

Introduction

Birds can cause considerable damage to strawberry crops, eating the ripe fruit and leaving behind droppings that can contaminate the plants and soil. For gardeners and farmers alike, preventing birds from feasting on their precious strawberries is a priority. Fortunately, there are a number of methods for keeping birds away from strawberry patches.

This article explores some of the most effective ways to keep birds from eating strawberries. From physical barriers to reflective objects and motion-activated sprinklers, we’ll cover it all. Read on to learn how to protect your strawberry crop from hungry birds.

Physical Barriers

One of the best ways to keep birds away from strawberries is to install a physical barrier around the patch. This will help prevent birds from accessing the plants and eating the fruit.

Netting

Netting is an effective way to keep birds away from strawberries. The mesh should be made of a strong material and be small enough that birds cannot fit through the holes. Additionally, the netting should be taut so that birds cannot perch on it.

Chicken Wire

Chicken wire can also be used to create a physical barrier around a strawberry patch. It should be installed several inches off the ground, as birds can easily slip underneath if it is too close to the soil. Additionally, the wire should be taut and securely attached to posts or stakes.

Bird Spikes

Bird spikes are another effective way to keep birds away from strawberries. These pointed plastic or metal spikes can be installed on fences, posts, and other structures near the strawberry patch. They provide an uncomfortable roosting surface for birds, discouraging them from landing in the area.

Reflective Objects

Birds tend to be intimidated by bright, shiny objects, which makes reflective objects an effective deterrent. Placing these items near the strawberry patch can help keep birds away.

CDs

Hanging CDs near a strawberry patch can help keep birds away. The light reflecting off the plastic discs is often enough to scare away birds. Plus, they’re easy to find and relatively inexpensive.

Shiny Strips of Mylar

Shiny strips of Mylar can also be used to deter birds. These thin strips of reflective material can be hung around the strawberry patch or attached to stakes or posts. Like CDs, they reflect light, creating an intimidating environment for birds.

Motion Activated Sprinkler System

Motion activated sprinkler systems are designed to startle birds with a sudden burst of water. These systems use an infrared sensor to detect movement and then trigger a spray of water to surprise the bird. This method of bird control is particularly effective when combined with other deterrents.

Advantages

Motion activated sprinkler systems have several advantages. First, they are humane, as they don’t harm the birds. Second, they are cost-effective, as they only use water when triggered. Third, they are relatively easy to install and maintain.

Installation

Installing a motion activated sprinkler system is relatively straightforward. Begin by positioning the sprinkler head at least 10 feet away from the strawberry patch. Then, connect the sprinkler to a water source and adjust the settings. Finally, test the system to ensure it is working properly.

Decoy Predators

Birds are naturally wary of predators, so placing decoy predators near a strawberry patch can help keep birds away. Owls, hawks, and snakes are all effective decoys.

Owls

Owls are natural predators of birds, so placing a fake owl near a strawberry patch can help deter birds from entering the area. Fake owls can be purchased online or at garden stores.

Hawks

Hawks are another type of predator that can help keep birds away from strawberries. Like owls, fake hawks can be purchased online or at garden stores.

Snakes

Snakes are also effective decoy predators. Fake rubber snakes can be purchased online or at garden stores and placed near the strawberry patch to deter birds.

Repellents

Bird repellents are substances designed to make an area unpleasant or inhospitable to birds. These products can be sprayed directly onto plants to keep birds away.

Chili Pepper Solution

One of the most effective bird repellents is a chili pepper solution. To make this solution, combine one teaspoon of cayenne pepper, one teaspoon of garlic powder, and two tablespoons of dish soap with two cups of hot water. Let the mixture cool and then spray it directly onto the strawberry plants.

Other Bird Repellents

In addition to chili pepper solutions, there are numerous other bird repellents available. These include sprays, granules, and gels, all of which can be found online or at garden stores.

Conclusion

Birds can cause significant damage to strawberry crops, but there are a number of ways to keep them away. From physical barriers such as netting, chicken wire, and bird spikes, to reflective objects and motion activated sprinklers, there are many effective methods for protecting strawberries from birds. Decoy predators and repellents are also useful tools in the fight against hungry birds.

Summary of Solutions

To sum up, the best ways to keep birds away from strawberries are: physical barriers such as netting, chicken wire, and bird spikes; reflective objects such as CDs and Mylar strips; motion activated sprinklers; decoy predators such as owls, hawks, and snakes; and bird repellents such as chili pepper solutions.

Further Resources

For more information on keeping birds away from strawberries, consult your local extension office or visit the website of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).