When cherry season approaches, not only garden owners look forward to the sweet fruits, but starlings also find these treats irresistible. Unfortunately, these birds can destroy a significant portion of the crop in a very short period of time. In this article you will learn how Effectively keep starlings away from your cherry trees and can protect your cherries.
Using bird nets
One of the most effective ways to keep starlings away from your cherry trees is to use bird nets. These nets are stretched over the trees and prevent birds from getting to the fruit. Make sure the net is fine-meshed and secured well to avoid gaps. It is important that the netting does not rest directly on the branches as this could still allow the birds access to the fruit.
Use of acoustic scarecrows
Acoustic scarecrows are devices that produce noises, which birds, especially starlings, find threatening. These sounds can be the cawing of birds of prey or the alarm calls of other starlings. The devices should be changed regularly to avoid the birds getting used to it. It is advisable to use this method in combination with other defense measures.
Optical deterrents
Another way to keep starlings away is to use visual deterrents such as Reflective bands or CDs, which are hung in the trees. The movement and play of light from these objects can irritate and scare starlings. Special scarecrows or balloons with large eyes (so-called “scary eyes”) can also be effective.
Encourage natural predators
Encouraging natural predators of starlings can also help keep their population in check. Installing nesting boxes for birds of prey such as hawks or owls can help encourage them to settle nearby and naturally reduce starling numbers.
Early harvest
A simple but often overlooked method is this early harvest of the cherries. As soon as the cherries are ripe and before they become too attractive to starlings, they should be harvested. This not only reduces loss to birds but also gives you the best quality of your fruit.
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