A modern solution to an age-old problem
At Anthony James Vineyard in Central Otago, managing birds during harvest season used to mean weeks of hard labour and tens of thousands spent on netting. But at 94 years old, owner Ewing Stevens knew there had to be a better way—and he found it with Birdzout laser bird deterrents.
The Challenge: Birds vs. Grapes
Bird damage during ripening season was a serious threat. The traditional solution—netting—was no small job:
• Required 8 people and 2 full days to install
• Cost around $80,000 to replace
• Created a damp microclimate that increased the risk of disease
• Needed regular maintenance over 8 weeks
As Ewing put it: “There had to be a better way.”
The Shift: From Netting to Laser
After reading about laser bird control in a wine industry magazine, Ewing and vineyard management partner Viticultura reached out to growers overseas. The feedback was clear: “We’d never go back to nets.”
They trialled one laser in 2022 and saw promising results. In 2023, they went all in—installing three Birdzout automated lasers.
These smart lasers:
• Automatically scan the vineyard and tree lines
• Create unpredictable movement patterns birds can’t adapt to
• Work 24/7 without needing staff on site
The Result: Less Damage, More Savings
With Birdzout lasers doing the heavy lifting, Anthony James Vineyard:
• Avoided the $80,000 cost of new nets
• Reduced labour and setup time to almost zero
• Protected more of the crop—even in high-pressure zones
• Removed the disease risks caused by netting
• Cut operating costs by up to 10%
“This is the most effective bird control system we’ve used.”
— Timbo Deaker, Co-owner, Viticultura
Want to Reduce Bird Pressure Without Nets?
Birdzout laser systems offer a proven, cost-effective alternative to netting for vineyards, orchards, and arable crops.
Talk to Birdzout today to find the right solution for your site.
