Protecting your silage stacks from bird interference isn't just about safeguarding feed, it's about preserving feed quality, animal health and the profitability of your operation.
Why Bird Control Matters for Silage Stacks
Silage stacks are a magnet for birds looking for easy meals. When they tear plastic wraps to feed on silage, it leads to spoilage, feed loss, and serious contamination risks from bacteria and fungi, threatening the health and well being of your stock.
Birds most commonly a problem are pūkekos, starlings, sparrows, gulls and ducks
When are birds most commonly a problem
Spring (Oct–Nov): Most grass and maize silage is harvested and stacked. Birds are very active at this time as it’s breeding season and they need extra food.
Autumn (Mar–May): Another common silage-making period. Birds are hungry heading into winter, so pressure can be just as high.
Fresh stacks = high risk: Birds often attack within days of wrapping.
Pukekos hang around year-round: Especially near wetlands or damp paddocks close to silage sites.
Set up your bird deterrents before stacks are made and keep them in place for the first few weeks, when damage risk is highest.
Recommended Solutions for Silage Stacks
Bioacoustic - Bird Sound Deterrents:
These use a range of sounds to deter birds including: bird alarm, predator and harassment sounds. These sounds work well on most bird species that cause problems with silage stacks and feed pads. Some sounds are bird species specific so it is important to identify the bird species causing the problem.
Gas Guns - Bird Bangers:
These use loud bangs which deter most bird species. They are an effective way of deterring birds from large open areas. Designed and built to last, these gas guns will give you many years of problem-free bird control. (Not recommended in areas where there are neighbours very close by)
Pyrotechnics - Banger & Screamer cartridges:
These are a great way of manually moving flocks of birds from an area. A good way to add effect to other bird deterrents.
Predator Kites & Visual Deterrents:
While not always effective as a stand alone solutions, these help add effect to other deterrents. The predator kites work in well with Bioacoustic deterrents as the birds associate the predator sounds with the kite.
Don’t Just Wing It – Birdzout Smart Tips for Success
1. Secure Your Stack with Tough Protective Covers
Use UV-resistant, tear-proof silage film and seal edges tightly. Regularly inspect and repair any rips or gaps - breaking the birds’ access is your first line of defense. Inspect stacks after rain or high bird activity and repair quickly.
2. Layer Multiple Measures for Long-Term Impact
Combine physical covers, visual deterrents, and tech-based solutions, especially during seasons when bird pressure is highest. That multi-tiered approach keeps the deterrence fresh and effective. Change positions or types of deterrents regularly so birds don’t get used to them.
3. Know the Legal Boundaries
Pukekos are protected under NZ law. If you're considering lethal control due to significant stack damage, you must first secure written permission from the Department of Conservation or Fish & Game. Always aim for non-lethal deterrents as your primary strategy.
Start Protecting your Feed Today
Every feed site is different. Whether you’re dealing with open maize pits, grain bunkers, or silage stacks, we'll build a strategy that works for your land. Get in touch and we'll put our thinking to work for your operation.
Contact us to discuss the best solution for your farm
